Graduate Jobs With No Experience in the UK

Graduate schemes are designed for people straight out of university. They provide structured training and mentoring and do not expect previous experience in the industry. Trainee and junior roles in areas such as recruitment, sales, marketing, finance, IT support, project coordination, logistics and the public sector also welcome new graduates. Teaching, social work and nursing have their own funded training routes for graduates of any subject.

Even without a job history, you have more to offer than you might think. Your degree taught you research, analysis, writing and time management. University projects, a dissertation, society or sports committee roles, volunteering, part time work in retail or hospitality and any freelance work all give you examples to use. Describe them on your CV using the skills employers ask for in the advert.

When applying, tailor each application rather than sending the same CV everywhere. Read the job description, match your examples to the requirements and keep your CV to two pages. A short cover note that explains why you want this particular role and company helps you stand out from other new graduates.

While you search, consider short-term ways to build experience alongside applications, such as volunteering, temping, a part time job or a short online course in a relevant skill. These show initiative, give you fresh examples for interviews and can lead to references or even a permanent offer from the same employer.

Do not be put off by a first role that seems modest. Many graduates progress quickly once they have their first job. Create a free JobsChance account, upload your CV and apply for graduate jobs with no experience in minutes.