It's a full time job

Looking for a job is a full time job in itself so try and treat it like one. We know all too well how difficult it can be to motivate yourself and be disciplined with your time but if you really want it, it should come second nature. Don't just dip in and out of searching casually - set yourself times to start and finish, don't wait for deadlines - apply there and then, don't just blindly wonder through the web - have a planned strategy of where to go and when to check. If you're caught snoozing, the next graduate behind you could get their feet under the desk intended for you!

A Professional voicemail and email

Did you know that so often it's the small things that graduates do (or don't do!) that can put off recruiters? A classic example of this which may not be totally obvious is your voicemail message - what does it say about you? Very often this will be the first time they get to gauge your character. Your message should sound like you and you should avoid sounding too casual or especially using any slang. Equally, always use a professional email address. While Arsenalfan@...com or supergirlraver@...co.uk may be fine for friends, it may give employers a negative perception of your level of professionalism and commitment to your graduate job search.

Is your graudate application genuine?

In this crowded marketplace recruiters are trying their absolute hardest to pick out applicants who show any signs of not being 100% passionate about the industry they want to work in. It's not just about wanting the job - employers need convincing of your genuine interest in order for them to feel that you were unquestionably dedicated before you even heard about the vacancy. This can come in the form of evidence of your involvement related to the industry like magazine subscriptions, recent news, societies, attending talks or independent projects.

Painting a picture of yourself at interview

A very common question or request at interview has always been to talk about yourself a little. This open question doesn't require you to give a chronological description of your life to date but more an opportunity to talk about your recent and current interests that define you as an individual. Touch on various subjects that warrant more detail to open up the conversation when asked. It's your opportunity to paint a picture of what you're about so make it a colourful one! Also try to involve the interviewer by asking their opinion as you may share common ground.

How do you deal with criticism?

Everyone is a critic, but not everyone can deal with criticism in a constructive way. If you're to remain composed, and ultimately successful, then you must learn to treat it like feedback. If you can turn what could be perceived as negative comments into a guideline to your personal refinement, then even rejection can be a lesson worth experiencing.

The Personal Touch to a Good Graduate Covering Letter

Avoid a generic covering letter. A recruiter will be able to see right through a covering letter that is not personalised and is likely to ignore the rest of your application. In fact, rather than saving you time, a poorly researched 'To whom it may concern' letter will waste valuable job hunting hours.

A New Year and a Fresh Outlook

In our experience the start of the year is normally a great time for graduate job hunting. The time off gives graduate recruiters a moment to think about things on a larger scale and will often result a slight rise in job opportunities. If you're starting to look for work make sure you're on the pulse and ready to pounce while everyone else is slowly getting back up to speed. Have several targeted CVs and a versatile covering letter that can be customised ready at hand so you're the first in line. Good luck for 2010!