Career Planning (PG Research Students)

There are a number of factors to consider when making a careers decision. You may have a clear understanding of your options and next steps or you may be feeling uncertain. Start by researching your options and developing an understanding of your own attributes, skills, values and motivations.

Factors to Consider

• Interests. These could be interests related to your research or they may lie outwith this, for example additional roles, hobbies and interests, volunteering, job roles you have completed.
• Values and motivations. What is important to you? What things do you feel are worthwhile? What do you value most?
• Areas of development. What are your strengths and what areas do you feel you need to develop in. How might you develop?
• Evidencing your skills. See Skills section below
• The job market. The job market in a particular country or location will be an important factor, whether you are considering moving for work or you want to stay in a particular place. You may also wish to explore self-employment, freelance and consultancy careers
• Your personal circumstances. Family, location, salary etc are all important individual factors to take into consideration in your career planning 

Employers are often looking for well-rounded candidates. On your CV it can help to have a variety of experience. This can be gained in your particular field or through a role which can gain you transferable, professional skills. We highly recommend exploring the following resources and booking a 1-2-1 appointment with a careers advisor or quick advice appointment.