Hi! My name is Abby and I am a second year student studying English Literature. I am also currently completing a placement with Careers & Student Opportunities here at York St John.

As part of the Prepare for Work day on 1st February 2017, I went along to one of the talks about How to Wow at Interview.  Peter Murphy from Sagar Wright, a recruitment company based in Leeds, came in to talk to second and third years about how to be successful in interviews for graduate positions. It was an hour long session where Peter gave lots of advice about the things you can do to make your interviews more successful. For example, he talked about the importance of preparation before the interview and how to make a good first impression to a prospective employer.

It was definitely a really good session offering lots of advice. Something that I was particularly aware of was the range of different ways to impress at interview. There were some things that particularly stood out to me. For example, how to answer questions relating to weaknesses. It was interesting that you can turn around negatives to make them into positives. This helps to show that you are willing to adapt and progress. Also it was interesting to think about different ways to show that you are interested in the company. In particular, researching current issues that are affecting the company or the sector that you will be working in. This shows your interest in the company as well as showing that you have done some preparation.

He also stressed the importance of creating and developing a LinkedIn profile. This is something that I have been thinking about doing in preparation for leaving university. It is a good resource to use as it not only gives you a chance to show your skills to potential employers, it also gives you a chance to engage with organisations across your preferred sector, which can help to show your interest and enthusiasm.

This session was mostly aimed at third years who are applying for graduate jobs, however as a second year I also learned from the advice given, both for getting a part-time job during university and for thinking ahead to life after university. I would definitely go to another similar event as it gives you a unique look into what sort of things employers are looking for.

I would give this session an 8 out of 10 so next time Sagar Wright come onto campus, I hope you’ll think about coming along to hear them speak.

Guest post by Abby McMurdo, English Literature.