All about graduate jobs boards

Large brand name companies such as Cadburys, Coca cola and others would visit Universities in an attempt to scoop up the cream before it disappeared into the big wide world. Unfortunately less than 1% of students would gain employment this way and for someone such as myself, I decided it was too much effort for too little chance of a result.

Today, the internet has totally transformed the graduate jobs market. companies and their graduate vacancies have never been more accessible through many jobs boards which can be found using simple search criteria. Here's some of the most frequently asked questions relating to graduate jobs boards

Q : Does it cost me anything to use?

A: No, on the whole these sites generate their income through companies paying to advertise graduate vacancies? In some cases you can sign up to receive job alerts by text, this will be optional and costs will be detailed on the site.

Q : What happens to my details once I register on a jobs board?

A : Your details are stored on a database and usually it will be set up to notify you when vacancies are posted which fit your profile.

Q : Once I've registered can anyone see my details?

A : There will be an option when you register as to whether you wish you CV to be viewable by others. If you choose not to be viewed, you will not be viewed. As a graduate you have little to loose through making your CV available. Later in your career, it can be a problem if your current employer sees your details posted on a jobs board looking for work. Some boards allow you to highlight certain companies from whom you wish to block anyone seeing your details.

Q : Will agencies who have got my details off the database be able to send them out to companies without me knowing?

A : No, this should not happen as it is Illegal. Data protection laws mean they must gain your permission before sending your details out anywhere.

Q : Is it easy to remove my details or will they remain on there for ever.?

A : Jobs boards need to have an effective mechanism to allow you to de-register to comply with laws, so it should be relatively simple to remove your details when you choose.

Q : Which jobs boards are the best to register with for graduate postions?

A : As a general rule, pick ones at the top of searches for obvious phrases such as graduate recruitment and graduate vacancies. Potential employers are more likely to find these, just as you have.

Since the introduction of internet graduate jobs boards, job hunting is far more accessible. No longer do you have to hope to be in the 1% who gain jobs straight from your degree. Get yourself registered in several jobs boards and you should find yourself inundated with helpful advice and a god basket of opportunities to apply to.

Good luck.