Academic excellence for business and the professions
Employability Skills Programme Tuesdays 1 – 2pm and 6 – 7pm Sponsored by
Brought to you by the Careers Service www.city.ac.uk/careers www.city.ac.uk
We are delighted to invite you to the 2018 Employability Skills Programme. Employability Skills Tuesdays will prepare you to make the transition from education to work, exploring all aspects of the selection and recruitment process. These sessions will cover the skills that are most valued by recruiters, how you can reflect on these and how to articulate your experiences clearly when talking to employers. Students that attend eight of the ten main sessions and submit a reflective review will receive a certificate. The following sessions are scheduled to take place during the autumn term:
Part 1: What skills are employers actually looking for: How to develop these through the Employability Skills Programme with the Institute of Student Employers 2nd October, 1 – 2pm Part 2: Online applications: Tackling them and what happens next with KPMG 2nd October, 6 – 7pm Part 3: Phone and video interviews: How best to prepare with Capgemini 9th October, 1 – 2pm Part 4: In-person interviews: What do employers really want to hear with National Audit Office 9th October, 6 – 7pm Part 5: Commercial awareness: What is this and how to develop it with Schroders 16th October, 1 – 2pm
Part 6: Recruitment tests: How to prepare for them with Civil Service Fast Stream 16th October, 6 – 7pm Part 7: Assessment centres: How to get noticed by the recruiters with Experian 23rd October, 1 – 2pm Part 8: Identifying your strengths: How to demonstrate them in the workplace with EY 23rd October, 6 – 7pm Part 9: Personal branding: How to develop your network with Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner 30th October, 1 – 2pm Part 10: What to expect from the workplace: Your first year with Morgan Stanley 30th October, 6 – 7pm
Be professional, be prepared. You have to register online to attend these sessions through City CareersHub: careershub.city.ac.uk/students.
Welcome from
Sponsors of the 2018 Employability Skills Programme KPMG is a place where the curious come together. A place where you will enjoy diverse challenges and bounce ideas with bright minds to help to deliver innovative approaches. Wherever you join us – in audit, tax and pensions, deal advisory, consulting, technology and business services – you will find yourself in a stimulating environment. One where disruptive technologies are embraced. One where collaboration is a way of life. One where your contribution can make a real difference to our colleagues, clients and communities. Our graduate and undergraduate programmes are incredibly popular and competitive, so attending employability skills workshops will really give you the edge in our recruitment process. They will help you to understand what employers like us look for in candidates in terms of behavioural capabilities. Being part of KPMG means being part of a community of talented people. Our colleagues have incredibly diverse backgrounds and you will be encouraged to bring your own unique perspective. We will value your ideas, enthusiasm and curiosity. You will also be encouraged to be innovative in your thinking. Rather than reacting to emerging trends, we anticipate them. Rather than being afraid of disruptive technologies, we embrace them. For example, we are currently harnessing the power of artificial intelligence and predictive analytics to empower our clients like never before. It all adds up to an exciting environment. People like you are at the heart of our success, so we will make sure you are empowered at every turn. Whether it is the training and development, support networks or the international opportunities, we will bring out your best.
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What are employability skills? Employers look for well-rounded applicants who have a strong academic background and also possess a range of core work competencies such as team working, commercial awareness and presentation skills. These key transferable skills are increasingly becoming as important to employers as educational achievement. The table on the next page summarises some of the skills that are most valued by employers. Take a moment to think about a situation where you have demonstrated these skills. This could be in your study, work or cocurricular activity (for example voluntary or community work and sport). We have put some prompts in this column to help you. Think about how each example helps you stand out from other candidates who might be applying for the same job.
To do: • Complete the table on the following page so that you can identify your strengths and areas for improvement • Read each company entry in this booklet and think about the tips these companies give you for succeeding in the selection and recruitment process • Sign up for and attend each of the skills sessions • Develop an action plan. What skills do you need to develop and how are you going to do this?
Research your next career move and meet top recruiters on campus by attending employer-led events. Register now through City CareersHub: careershub.city.ac.uk/students.
Employability skills
What is this?
Recent example of when you have demonstrated this skill
Communication • Listening • Written • Verbal
The ability to write, listen and speak effectively and clearly to get your point across to a range of audiences.
e.g. Dealing with people; writing case studies and speeches
Commercial awareness
The ability to understand your chosen industry and its broader context
e.g. Market analysis; research
Teamwork
The ability to work with others in a professional manner while collaborating to achieve a common goal.
e.g. Agreeing on timelines; contributing to discussions; dividing tasks
Analytical and critical thinking
The ability to assess a situation, seek multiple perspectives, gather more information if necessary and identify the key issues that need to be addressed.
e.g. Questionnaires; evaluations
Leadership
The ability to manage co-workers and motivate others to participate and work to the best of their capabilities.
e.g. Managing a project; building trust and respect; setting guidelines
Planning and organising
The ability to manage multiple assignments and tasks within a deadline, set priorities and delegate tasks when appropriate.
e.g. Developing timetables; setting deadlines; prioritising
Initiative
The ability to initiate or do something without being asked to by your manager or supervisor.
e.g. Implementing a new idea; improving something that is already in place
Problem solving and decision making
The ability to manage conflict, consider all aspects of a problem and think about possible solutions before reacting.
e.g. Listing pros and cons; seeking advice
Flexibility and adaptability
The ability to adapt calmly to changing conditions and work assignments.
e.g. Covering for someone at work who is ill; accepting new roles
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It’s never too early to start thinking about your career – read on to find out why it is important to engage early... “ We typically open our vacancies a year before the start date, so it is very important to submit your application early in order to stand the best chance of selection. We recruit on a rolling basis but tend to close off applications once we have enough candidates to fill our roles.” KPMG “ Practice makes perfect and knowing your options helps you make an informed decision.” Capgemini “ Engaging with employers early gives you the chance to properly understand what interests and motivates you and the kind of organisation where you will fit in and be happy. It will also build your confidence when applying for jobs as you will have a better idea of what to expect.” Civil Service “ First year is a great time to explore opportunities and discover which companies, careers and positions interest you without the pressure of applying to roles. Engaging with employers and careers professionals early will empower you to understand your key interests and develop a plan to achieve your career goals.” Experian “ We have first year programmes which act as a pipeline to our training contracts.” Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner “ In addition to the jobs market being super competitive, it is a good idea to engage with employers early to help you with making the right career choice for yourself. The earlier you familiarise yourself with different sectors, employers and opportunities, the easier it will be for you to make a well-informed decision. Give yourself enough time to explore your options, self-reflect and ensure you are pursuing a particular career for the right reasons. Employers not only offer work experience opportunities but they attend a range of campus fairs and events and often host insight events, so make sure you go along and ask them questions so you have a clearer understanding of what they do.” National Audit Office
Top tips from employers on techniques to increase your employability skills. “Network as much as you can.” KPMG “ Take advantage of the services provided, attend seminars and speak to experienced interviewers for help.” Capgemini “ Be interested in and engaged in what is going on in the world and think about how what you are doing applies in the real world. Turn up, go to events and take any opportunities: you will find out what interests you.” Civil Service “We encourage students to maximise their engagement with both academic and social aspects of university life. By participating in campus life you will develop valuable communication, teamwork, interpersonal and time management skills as well as develop networks which may assist you in later life.” Experian “ Enter competitions and engage in society activities as well as any type of learning skills sessions with your university, connect with brand ambassadors from the law firms that interest you and attend open days and networking events.” Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner “ In addition to the skills and knowledge you develop during your studies, explore extra-curricular projects and initiatives your university organises. Part-time jobs are also a great way to develop a range of key transferrable skills, such as customer service, team work and communication skills. If you have not already, get in touch with your careers services team as they will be able to talk through different opportunities (including ones you may have not considered) as well as offer you guidance on your job search.” National Audit Office
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2nd October 2018 Part 1. What skills are employers actually looking for: How to develop these through the Employability Skills Programme 1 – 2pm
Company profile
Top three tips to students
The Institute of Student Employers (ISE) is an independent, not-for-profit member organisation that was established in 1968. As the UK’s leading independent voice for student employers, our vision is that the success of every business is maximised by full access to student talent. We achieve this by bringing together employers, the education sector and supplier partners, providing leadership and support in all aspects of student recruitment.
• Understand yourself so you are making good career decisions
Outline of the session
• Get the experiences that will help you develop your employability skills • Do not be afraid to fail as this is how you learn.
A quote from ISE “ It is not about knowing the future, but about developing the ability to deal with change when it hits.”
Employers seek a mix of knowledge, skills and abilities when recruiting students. This session will help you understand what employers look for, how they recruit and how you can develop yourself to stand out in the jobs market.
What will be the three main learning outcomes of the session? • Getting an understanding of the student labour market
Find out more: www.ise.org.uk @isherwood_ise @IoSEorg
• Gaining an insight into what employers look for and how they recruit • Receive top tips on how you can develop your employability skills.
Industry Insights The Industry Insight Programme, sponsored by FDM Group, allows you to explore a range of industries and sectors, either related to your degree or in another area of interest to you. A series of full-day or half-day events will take place on company premises, giving you a deep insight into a specific company and an understanding of your chosen sector. For more information, visit City CareersHub: careershub.city.ac.uk/students.
2nd October 2018 Part 2. Online applications: Tackling them and what happens next 6 – 7pm
Company profile With a worldwide presence, KPMG continues to build on our member firms’ successes thanks to our clear vision, maintained values and our people. With offices across the UK, we work with organisations from small start-ups and individuals to major multinationals. We also work with 23 industry sectors, from corporates to financial services, infrastructure to government, energy to retail, healthcare to hospitality, our clients entrust us to solve their biggest challenges.
Outline of the session This session is an opportunity to receive exclusive advice on online application processes and to meet with our recruitment team to understand how to make the best impact in your applications. You will also gain insight into what KPMG does and how you can use your strengths and skills to succeed in a career at KPMG.
Top tips for writing winning online applications • Make sure you complete all sections of the application form, remembering to include all the qualifications that we ask for.
A quote from KPMG “ Our success is built on the hard work and expertise of all kinds of people, so we will take a range of factors into account when reviewing your application. Within our recruitment process, we look for more than just your academic results. This balanced scorecard approach helps us ensure that we are giving you the best opportunity to demonstrate your potential. We assess your application against KPMG’s Global Behavioural Capabilities and combine a number of different factors, including work experience and how you perform in our recruitment process.”
What will be the three main learning outcomes of the session? • Understand the recruitment process from application submission through to the final stage • Become confident in taking the online tests for the KPMG graduate and placement roles • Understand the behaviours companies look for in candidates and how KPMG assess them on their own online applications.
Find out more: www.kpmgcareers.co.uk @KPMGRecruitment linkedin.com/company/kpmg-advisory
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9th October 2018 Part 3. Phone and video interviews: How best to prepare 1 – 2pm
Company profile
A quote from Capgemini
Capgemini Consulting specialises in advising and supporting enterprises in significant transformation, from innovative strategy to execution with an unstinting focus on results. With the new digital economy creating significant disruptions and opportunities, our global team of over 3,000 talented individuals work with leading companies and governments to master digital transformation, drawing on our understanding of the digital economy and our leadership in business transformation.
“ We look for people who have a passion for technology with a determination to drive digital change. You will be keen to work within an ambitious consulting environment, where you will want to contribute to our growth and success and work collaboratively with our clients to help them address their complex business challenges. Our business culture is collaborative and supportive; we place a large emphasis on developing the careers of our team and supporting each other across the practice, where team players bring a passion for transforming business through enabling technology.”
Outline of the session It is critical to prepare for interviews, but sometimes you do not know how. This session will give you real tips and tricks on how best to prepare for an interview. Explain how important it is to understand the role, the brand and what you need to know.
Opportunities at our company We have a BTI Academy open to applicants all year around and feature three intakes a year.
What will be the three main learning outcomes of the session? • Learn how to prepare for a phone interview • Learn how to prepare for a video interview • Learn how to ask the right questions.
Top three tips to students • Know the role • Know the brand • Know what three best skills you bring to the company.
Find out more: www.capgemini.com/consulting/ service/business-technology-innovation @CapgeminiUK facebook.com/CapgeminiUK
9th October 2018 Part 4. In-person interviews: What do employers really want to hear 6 – 7pm
Company profile The National Audit Office (NAO) is an independent public body that helps Parliament hold government to account for how taxpayers’ money is spent. Our vital audit work adds value to government by supporting its drive to improve the delivery of public services to millions of people every day. Our work is impactful and influential and in a nutshell, our vision is to help the nation spend wisely.
Outline of the session Let’s face it, interviews can be incredibly daunting. This session will give you some handy pointers to help you prepare for them and do your best on the day.
What will be the three main learning outcomes of the session? • Familiarise yourself with what specific skills employers look for
A quote from The National Audit Office (NAO) “ Interviews are not just an opportunity for employers to assess the knowledge you have been developing during your studies, but they are also keen to find out about the skillset you would bring if you were successful. Employers will ask you a range of questions on things like time management, team working and your approach to tasks whilst also assessing your communication skills. It is really important to keep reflecting on how you can build key transferrable skills during your time at university. But speak to your careers advisor if you need pointers on how you can develop these skills.”
Opportunities at our company Please visit our website for further details on the opportunities we offer.
• Learn how to best prepare ahead of the interview • Get top tips to enhance your performance in interviews.
Top three tips to students • Do your homework. Make sure you have researched the organisation and have a good understanding of the role • Take some time to self-reflect. Employers are keen to hear your motivations for applying for the role and what your career aspirations are • Be confident. We know it is hard to control your nerves but bear in mind that interviewers do not just assess what you say but also how you say it, so be comfortable and confident with the responses you give.
Find out more: naoaccountancyscheme.co.uk @NAOgraduatejobs linkedin.com/company/naoorguk
Remember You have to register online to attend these sessions. To secure your place, register through City CareersHub: careershub.city.ac.uk/students. 10|11
16th October 2018 Part 5. Commercial awareness: What is this and how to develop it 1 – 2pm
Company profile
Top three tips to students
At Schroders asset management is our business and our goals are completely aligned with those of our clients: the creation of long-term value. We manage £430.3 billion on behalf of institutional and retail investors, financial institutions and high net worth clients from around the world, invested in a broad range of asset classes across equities, fixed income, multi-asset and alternatives.
• Have an opinion or a rationale. Reciting facts and figures is not enough
Outline of the session This interactive session will cover what commercial awareness really means when applying for intern and graduate jobs in the financial sectors. It will focus on why commercial awareness is assessed by recruiters, what it consists of and what you can do to build it ahead of video interviews or face-to-face assessments.
What will be the three main learning outcomes of the session? • Gain an understanding of what constitutes commercial awareness outside of technical knowledge • Learn how to use your experiences to show you have got commercial awareness • Explore key resources you can use to further develop your knowledge.
Employer in residence During the term, employers will be offering one-to-one CV checks to students. Find out more about these sessions and how to register for them on City CareersHub: careershub.city.ac.uk/students.
• Do not turn down the small opportunities. They can often lead to bigger opportunities to learn and develop • Commercial awareness is driven by interest and intrigue. Follow news stories that have a particular point of interest to you and follow them thoroughly.
Opportunities at our company Please visit our website for further information.
Find out more: www.schroders.com/graduates @schroders linkedin.com/company/schroders youtube.com/user/schroders
16th October 2018 Part 6. Recruitment tests: How to prepare for them 6 – 7pm
Company profile
Three top tips to students
The Civil Service helps to keep the UK prosperous and secure, supports the government to implement their commitments and delivers high quality services for everyone in society. The Civil Service champions difference to ensure that our policies and services reflect the needs and experiences of the people we serve.
• Our most important tip is to get a good night’s sleep before any tests
A career in the Civil Service offers you the opportunity to make a difference to people’s lives in the UK as well as learning on the job and good career development opportunities.
A quote from Civil Service
Outline of the session We will be giving an introduction to the Civil Service Fast Stream and our experience of it. We will talk you through the application process and provide advice on preparing for each stage with a focus on recruitment tests. There is a lot of confusion about recruitment tests which can put good candidates off. We want to give you the confidence to apply. We are running this session to guide anyone who is hesitant about applying to roles with recruitment tests as to whether the role is right for them and to help those who are interested or who have applied to prepare for the next stages.
What will be the three main learning outcomes of the session? • Understand how to maximise your chances of passing recruitment tests
• It is also helpful to understand what you can control and prepare for and what you cannot • Research and understand the values and behaviours the organisation looks for in candidates.
“ T he Civil Service needs a workforce with the very best possible mix of existing and future talent. We are looking for applicants from any academic discipline and social background to ensure we continue to develop policies and deliver services for the benefit of the British public.”
Opportunities at our company There are 15 graduate schemes across 25 ministerial departments covering every aspect of public service.
Find out more: www.faststream.gov.uk @faststreamuk facebook.com/faststream youtube.com/c/theFastStreamUK
• Have a clear understanding of what the application process looks like • Understand what the Civil Service Fast Stream is.
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23rd October 2018 Part 7. Assessment centres: How to get noticed by the recruiters 1 – 2pm
Company profile
Top three tips to students
Our world is built on data. It is all around us, growing in power and influence every day. We turn data into something meaningful. We gather, analyse, combine and process it to help people and organisations achieve their goals whether that means planning a secure future or getting to know your customers better.
• D o your research. Understand and be ready to demonstrate your knowledge of the company, the role and your motivation for applying
We believe data has the power to change lives. By helping people and organisations make the most of their data, we can make a positive difference to our society and communities.
Outline of the session Assessment centres can seem daunting. However, they are an effective way to demonstrate your suitability for a role to a variety of representatives of the company you are applying to. This session will look behind the scenes to hear the inside word on why and how employers use assessment centres, understand what they are looking for and how you can maximise your impact to really stand out from the crowd.
What will be the three main learning outcomes of the session? • Understand which skills are tested through common assessment centre activities • Understand how employers make decisions during assessment centres • Know how to maximise your impact.
• Participate in all activities • Be yourself.
A quote from Experian “ We look for students with a passion for our business, potential to develop technical capabilities and the ability to express how their skills and abilities can contribute to our success.”
Opportunities at Experian We provide opportunities for apprenticeships, placement students and graduates across our business.
Find out more: www.experian.co.uk/careers @Experian facebook.com/ExperianUK
23rd October 2018 Part 8. Identifying your strengths: How to demonstrate them in the workplace 6 – 7pm
Company profile
A quote from EY
Start today. Change tomorrow. EY is a global professional services organisation. Our high performing teams operate across four service lines: assurance, consulting, tax and transactions, to help clients drive innovations on the issues that matter most. For smart, curious graduates, working at EY offers the opportunity to change how world-leading organisations do business and helps them shape their career their way.
“ We are looking for individuals that can show enthusiasm and innovation when working at EY. We want to know what you are passionate about and how your experiences have helped shape you as a person.”
Opportunities at EY We have lots of different opportunities, please see our website for more information.
Outline of the session This session will cover the EY recruitment process and how strengths based recruitment works. We will give you the opportunity to identify your own strengths and work with others to understand how they can be successful using their strengths.
What will be the three main learning outcomes of the session? • Gain confidence in identifying your own strengths
Find out more: ukcareers.ey.com/graduates @EY_StudentsUK facebook.com/eycareersuk instagram.com/eyukcareers
• Understand how strengths based recruitment works • Get an insight into what companies like EY look for throughout a strengthsbased process.
Top tips to students Think about what you enjoy doing, what you do well and what you do often. Be critical of yourself and ask others what they think your strengths are too.
After attending the skills sessions To build on the understanding you have gained from the Programme, we recommend that you: • Attend Careers Challenges series to build skills for success in the recruitment and selection process • Sign up for mock assessment sessions; gain valuable experience and feedback in assessment and psychometric testing, to help with you prepare practically and mentally for the selection process. Find out more at www.city.ac.uk/careers. 14|15
30th October 2018 Part 9. Personal Branding: How to develop your network 1 – 2pm
Company profile Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP is a fullyintegrated global law firm that provides clients with connected legal advice, wherever and whenever they need it. The firm is known for its relationship-driven, collaborative culture, diverse legal experience and industry-shaping innovation and offers clients one of the most active M&A, real estate, financial services, litigation and corporate risk practices in the world.
Outline of the session With training contracts being so competitive, it is increasingly important to make yourself stand out and be remembered. In this session we are going to cover the importance of creating and establishing a strong personal brand as well as how to network effectively. This will be an interactive session where we shall explore the challenges and concerns that you have faced and aim to equip you with some techniques and tips to give you the confidence to develop your unique selling points.
What will be the three main learning outcomes of the session? • Learn how to make the most out of networking events • Learn how to develop your personal brand at interviews and other formal situations • Learn how to make good first impressions.
Top three tips to students • Use social media effectively and professionally • Show a positive attitude and learn how to portray this to future employers • Follow up with employers.
A quote from Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner “ We firmly believe that our trainees are the future of our firm and we invest heavily in helping you fulfil your potential. Our investment commences before you start work here and continues throughout your career. We look for ambitious, proactive, commercial students who have a willingness to learn and are not afraid to think outside the box to solve problems. We currently have 92 per cent client loyalty rate which means that you have to develop strong relationships with clients from the get go, as well as apply your legal knowledge effectively.”
Opportunities at Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner We have an insight scheme for first year law and second year non-law students, vacation schemes and training contracts in London, Manchester and Hong Kong.
Find out more: www.bclplaw.com/trainee @BCLP_Trainees facebook.com/BCLP_Trainees
30th October 2018 Part 10. What to expect from the workplace: Your first year 6 – 7pm
Company profile
A quote from Morgan Stanley
Morgan Stanley is more than a leading financial services firm. With offices spanning 42 countries and talented, passionate people bringing excellence and integrity to everything we do, the firm is truly global. Throughout the firm’s history, diverse and talented individuals have worked together to develop our new ideas and ground breaking financial products.
“ There is no typical person at Morgan Stanley. Our people come from a wide variety of backgrounds and interests but they are all high achievers who share integrity, intellectual curiosity and the desire to work in a collegial environment. Individuality is prized and people are encouraged to be themselves. What you are interested in and how you approach the world will determine your individual career path at Morgan Stanley.”
Outline of the session Led by the Morgan Stanley Programme Management team, we will discuss key skills required when starting a graduate role and how to make the most of the opportunities available.
What will be the three main learning outcomes of the session? • Learn how to effectively prepare for starting a graduate role • Get an understanding of what the first 12 months will entail • Receive top tips on how to excel during your graduate programme.
Top three tips to students • Research as much as you can. Be aware of what is happening globally as well as in the financial markets space • Do not be frightened of asking questions when you arrive
Opportunities at Morgan Stanley We all know and recognise the value of work experience and we, therefore, offer internships that give promising penultimate-year students the chance to experience one of our nine key business areas in an enjoyable and intellectually challenging way. In addition to our ten week summer programmes, we also run industrial placements and off-cycle internships and give you the opportunity to join us for a look behind the scenes at one of our insight events. While allowing you to experience Morgan Stanley and our culture first hand, internships and industrial placements also serve as the number one pipeline for our full time programmes. We welcome applications from all degree disciplines. Check our website for an overview of the different skills and competencies we seek by division and programme.
• Keep up to date with our Morgan Stanley website and know our values.
Find out more: www.morganstanley.com/peopleopportunities/students-graduates @morganstanley facebook.com/morganstanley 16|17
Choose five skills‌ ...that are important for the area of work that you want to go into. Identify which employers will be on campus and ask them which skills their organisation values the most. If your top employer is not on campus, then take a look at their website and find the key skills/competencies that they are looking for. Take a moment to think about what you can do to develop these skills further and write an action point next to each one.
For example: The skill I would like to develop: Commercial awareness. Employer name: EY The skills they value: Teamwork, communication, commercial awareness, problem solving. How I am going to develop this: Read about relevant news stories on a daily basis and think about how they impact the industry/organisation I am interested in. Speak to employers at careers events and find out what issues and challenges their businesses face. By when: By the end of academic year 2018/19. The skill I would like to develop: Employer name: The skills they value: How I am going to develop this: By when: The skill I would like to develop: Employer name: The skills they value: How I am going to develop this: By when: The skill I would like to develop: Employer name: The skills they value: How I am going to develop this: By when:
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Careers Service City, University of London Northampton Square London EC1V 0HB T: +44 (0)20 7040 8093 E: careers@city.ac.uk www.city.ac.uk/careers