Studying at Teesside University as an international student can be a rewarding experience for personal growth and professional development. However, navigating the UK job market and securing employment can pose some challenges for international students. Through these seven tips, you can enhance your employability and maximise your career prospects.
- Understand the Job Market
Do your research on the job market by exploring online job portals, career fairs networking events, and finding out industry trends, in-demand skills and job opportunities related to your field of interest. This will give you insight into the type of roles available and the qualifications that potential employers are looking for.
- Develop Transferable Skills
Don’t worry if you may not have the qualifications or experience for a job role, employers also look at transferable skills which can easily be applied to a job role such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving and adaptability. You can develop these skills through numerous activities across the university by signing up for a part-time job being a student ambassador and engaging in extracurricular activities by signing into a society. You can contact our Student Futures team for career advice and support and our Teesside University Global team for international opportunities.
- Build a Professional Network
Network with like-minded industry individuals, professors/researchers, and alumni at networking events, connecting with them via LinkedIn and being involved with alumni associations to expand your network and access potential job leads.
- Enhance Your Language and Communication Skills
Take advantage of our language support services such as our English Language Café, so that you can practice your communication in a professional setting. Effective communication is essential in the workplace, so make sure you improve your English language proficiency.
- Stay Informed About Visa Regulations and Work Rights
Familiarise yourself with the visa regulations and work rights by going on the GOV UK website as rules and regulations are always changing. You can also seek guidance from our university’s support services if you have any questions or concerns about your work eligibility.
- Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter
Customise your CV and cover letter by aligning the job requirements and description with your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. You make a strong impression by adapting your application to the UK job market standards including formatting, language, and culture norms.
- Prepare for Interviews
Practice, practice, practice! You can familiarise yourself by responding to common interview questions, highlighting your suitability for the job, your strengths, and your experiences. Make sure you practice asking the interviewer questions too which relate to the work culture, job role and why they joined the company.
Navigating the path to employment as an international student studying at a UK university may present challenges, but with these useful tips, you can unlock a world of opportunities and embark on a successful career journey.
By Jade.
