Have you just finished your academic year and are looking for ways to stand out to potential employers after graduation? Issy, Early Careers Advisor at THG, shares her top tips for boosting your employability and getting a head start in today’s competitive job market. From CV updates to building your personal brand, here’s how to set yourself up for career success.  

This month, we welcomed our newest cohort of ambitious interns. Eight interns will be joining THG for the next twelve months, applying their  knowledge from university to fuel the growth of two of Gen Z’s favourite brands – LOOKFANTASTIC and Myprotein. Rotating within their divisions, they will get the chance to explore the worlds of e-commerce, marketing, events, social and more!  

If you are dreaming of being part of a future cohort of innovative interns, here are my top tips to help you boost your employability and competitive edge!

Give your CV a glow-up

If your CV is collecting dust on your laptop, it’s time to update it! Can you add any more insight into the modules you’re studying or update your skills section now you’ve completed another year of studying? 

Are there any societies or extra-curricular activities that you’ve been involved in? These are definitely worth noting - they show initiative, teamwork, and time management, all of which are valuable to future employers. 

Even part-time jobs, volunteering, or personal projects can help paint a fuller picture of your experience and interests. Take 20 minutes to refresh your CV now - future you will thank you when it’s time to apply for placements, internships or graduate roles! 

Complete an online course  

Online courses are great on your CV but also allow you to start sussing out particular areas that you might want to start pursuing in your career. Forage was my go-to at university. A great way to boost your employability without even leaving your house!  

Start building your LinkedIn presence 

So many students hold off investing time in LinkedIn, viewing it as a platform reserved for professionals. This could not be further from the truth – there is so much value to be gained building your LinkedIn profile whilst at university. A strong profile can become an extension of your CV, bringing your experience to life and allowing you to build a strong personal brand that allows you to stand out to employers. 

Unsure what to post? The “wrap up” post is my go-to for new LinkedIn posters and is a great way to round up an academic year. It forces you to reflect on everything you’ve achieved in the last year and encourages you to become your own cheerleader. A simple caption idea is along the lines of: “As I wrap up the end of my second year at the University of Leeds, I’ve taken some time to reflect on all I’ve achieved….”. 

 Pick up a new hobby

This may not seem related to employability, however transferable skills and proactivity speak volumes to employers. Whether you sign up for a padel class or re-download Duolingo, start exploring new interests. 

Plus, hobbies can be a great talking point in interviews, helping you stand out and showing that you bring energy and enthusiasm to everything you do - inside and outside of work. So go ahead, try something different! 

Whatever stage you’re at in your university journey, there’s always something you can be doing to set yourself up for future success. Whether it’s updating your CV, trying out a new course, or simply putting yourself out there on LinkedIn, small steps now can open big doors later. 

Remember, every bit of experience counts - and it all adds up to show employers who you are beyond your degree.