It was a pleasure to partner with the Social Mobility Foundation at their Graduate Insights Event, bringing together undergraduate students across the UK intending to enter a career in Communications, Policy and Public Affairs post-graduation.

I was delighted to participate as a mentor offering guidance to students on the various career pathways open to graduates, whilst advising on where to find job opportunities and how to strengthen an application.

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What graduate career paths are open to those seeking a role in Communications, Policy and Public Affairs?

This is a question commonly asked by undergraduates who have not yet decided which career path to take after graduating or who may be unsure what type of organisation they may wish to apply to.

The first thing for graduates to know is that career pathways are more varied than many people expect, with each avenue offering unique experiences. For example, for those seeking a structured graduate scheme, the Civil Service Fast Stream offers different postings across government departments with a chance to learn from experienced Civil Servants and enhancing practical experience of policy development.

Alternatively, the option to work in an MP's office can provide graduates with a great opportunity to learn about policy development at the local level and those wishing to develop a career in communications can gain experience in speechwriting, responding to inquiries from constituents whilst developing position statements.

Other organisations such as charities and trade associations also offer graduate entry opportunities and can be a great option for those passionate about learning more between the interplay between government and industry or for those passionate about advocating for a particular cause or group. Additionally, the agency route can be a great choice for candidates who would enjoy exposure to a range of different sectors whilst gaining experience on supporting public affairs, communications and policy activity for a diverse portfolio of clients.

It is important to remember that your first job does not lock you in; people move between different organisation types throughout their careers, as the skills you develop over time can be transferred into different settings.

The biggest difference between these routes is timing. Structured schemes such as the Civil Service Fast Stream recruit around a year ahead, so you need to be ready in the autumn of your final year. Charities, trade bodies and MPs' offices hire on the other hand hire on a more ad hoc basis once a vacancy comes up, often with a two-week deadline.

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Where to find opportunities?

To find these roles, search by job title rather than by employer. At entry level the line between policy, public affairs and communications is blurred, and in a small team one person often does some of all three. In the Civil Service, look for roles at EO and HEO grade. Specialist boards are a good place to start: W4MP, Civil Service Jobs, CharityJob, PubAffairs and the LGA jobs board. Many trade associations and smaller charities only advertise on their own websites and on LinkedIn, so it pays to check those directly and to set up job alerts.

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How to strengthen an application?

Writing is the most important skill you can bring and it's important to tailor every application. Demonstrating a clear motivation and awareness of the organisation's unique offerings, priorities and challenges will give you a good advantage over other applicants.

Keeping your cover letter clear, concise, free of jargon is also important. Be mindful to use each job description as a framework to highlight the core skills you would bring to the role. Make sure to back up your claims with examples and to make these examples as outcome driven and objectives as possible.

Ahead of interviews, read the organisation's latest consultation responses and press releases, and expect a timed written task. Be ready to give a view on a live issue in the sector. It's important to demonstrate political awareness with a balanced overview of the opportunities and challenges facing the sector you've chosen to apply to.

Lastly resilience is key, when an application doesn't succeed, ask for feedback. It is one of the most useful things you can get, and every application teaches you something for the next one.

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Whether you're a hiring manager looking to strengthen your shortlists for entry level roles, or a recent graduate aspiring for a career in policy, public affairs or communications we'd be glad to help.

For a free and confidential chat contact us at hello@ellwoodatfield.com or 020 7340 6480.

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