University of Manchester Careers Blog

Apologies in advance to any lovers of this classic poem.

Twas the week before Christmas, and through Crawford House
Not a student was stirring (but we’ve still got a mouse!)
The job ads were placed on CareersLink with care
In hopes that some applicants soon would be there.

The CVs were polished and QQA checked
With transferable skills they were fully bedecked
To be printed and posted with cover letter
Showing employers that “I’m a go-getter!”

Posted off before the deadline date
Then, with fingers crossed, begins the long wait,
Filling the time as a keen volunteer
To add more skills to help find a career

Then finally the letter comes through door
“So far we’re impressed and we want to know more”
Now it’s the time for smart suit and socks
And head to Careers to ask about mocks.

Assessment centres? Banish all hope!
No, come to a practice and learn how to cope.
Be calm, speak up and work as a team
That’s the way onto a graduate scheme

But in many sectors the jobs are just lurking
So learn how to find them with clever networking
Make use of your contacts, it isn’t forbidden
And can be the way in when the jobs are all hidden

And if you’re successful, please do tell
We love to find out when you’re doing well
“I got my dream job” is what we want to hear
Merry Christmas to all and we’ll see you next year!

p.s. If you want some more sensible Christmas blogging, I highly recommend Natasha’s 12 Days of Careers Christmas post.