Graduate Landscape

Graduate Landscape Data and Insight

Understanding the current landscape of graduate employment is crucial for new graduates. Here, we present the latest data and insights to help you navigate your career journey.

• Employment Rates: The employment rate for recent graduates in the UK is promising but varies by industry and region. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the employment rate for recent graduates was approximately 86% in 2022. This reflects a competitive but optimistic job market for graduates.

• Salary Expectations: Graduate starting salaries can vary significantly based on the industry and region within the UK. Data from the Institute of Student Employers (ISE) shows that the average starting salary for UK graduates in 2022 was around £29,000. However, this can range from £20,000 in some sectors to over £40,000 in fields such as banking and finance.

• Industry Demand: Certain sectors are experiencing higher demand for graduates in the UK. The technology sector, healthcare, and engineering are projected to see substantial growth. According to Prospects, there is also a rising demand in green jobs and sustainability-related roles as the UK continues to focus on environmental initiatives and targets .

Graduate Market Research Findings

High Fliers Research regularly researches the number of graduate vacancies and starting salaries available at the organisations featured in The Times Top 100 Graduate Employers, as well as assessing the latest recruitment marketing and assessment & selection processes used by the UK's leading graduate recruiters in the Graduate Market publication released annually.

Top 100 Graduate Employers - Current Picture

Graduate market research from organisations such as High Fliers Research and the Institute of Student Employers (ISE) found both challenges and opportunities with the current market for those seeking opportunities with the Top 100 Graduate Employers, which you can see summarised below, or read the full reports above:

• Graduate recruitment at employers featured in The Times Top 100 Graduate Employers decreased unexpectedly in 2023, following a sharp increase in graduate vacancies in both 2021 and 2022 as employers sought to compensate for lower than-usual recruitment during the Coronavirus pandemic.

• Almost half the country’s top graduate employers reduced their graduate intake in 2023, compared to the previous year, and recruitment fell in ten out of fifteen key industries & business sectors.

• The biggest reductions in graduate vacancies were at the leading accounting & professional services firms, retailers, investment banks, the Armed Forces and technology companies.

• The latest recruitment targets for the UK’s best-known graduate employers remain cautious and show that the level of graduate vacancies available in 2024 is expected to increase by a modest 1.5%.

• Further reductions in the number of trainees recruited by accounting & professional services firms are expected, but graduate vacancies are set to increase significantly at engineering & industrial employers, with extra opportunities for graduates available in the public sector too. 

• Graduate starting salaries at the UK's leading graduate employers are set to increase in 2024 to a new median starting salary of £34,000. With the most generous salaries on are those on offer from investment banks (median of £55,000), law firms (median of £50,000) and consulting firms (median of £47,500).

• More than 4/5 of top graduate employers have taken part in on-campus careers fairs and 3/4 have hosted their own recruitment presentations at local universities across the year.

What to Expect in the Graduate Job Market

Entering the graduate job market can be both exciting and challenging. Here's what you can expect as you start your job search.

• Competitive Application Processes: Many graduate schemes and entry-level positions attract a large number of applicants. It's common to go through multiple stages of selection, including online applications, psychometric tests, assessment centres, and interviews.

• Skill Requirements: Employers are looking for a mix of technical skills and soft skills. According to the CBI's Education and Skills Survey, key skills in demand include problem-solving, digital literacy, teamwork, and communication.

• Flexibility and Adaptability: The job market is dynamic, and being adaptable is crucial. Many graduates may start in temporary roles, internships, or contract positions before securing permanent employment. The rise of remote working and gig economy jobs also offers different types of employment opportunities.

How to prepare for the graduate world?

Preparation is key to successfully navigating the graduate job market and employment. Here are some steps you can take to prepare.

• Build Your CV and Online Presence: A strong CV and professional online presence on platforms like LinkedIn are essential. Tailor your CV to highlight relevant skills and experiences for each application.

• Gain Experience: Internships, part-time jobs, and volunteer work can provide valuable experience and enhance your employability. Employers value practical experience alongside academic qualifications.

• Know your options: Opportunities with the Top 100 Graduate Employers is not your only option, you may want to consider entry-level positions or other options. See our pages on Graduate Options.

• Develop Soft Skills: Soft skills are increasingly important. Communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability are highly valued by employers. Engage in activities that help develop these skills, such as group projects, extracurricular activities, or online courses.

• Research Employers: Researching potential employers and understanding their values, culture, and expectations can give you an edge in applications and interviews. Utilize resources like company websites, LinkedIn, and career fairs.

• Prepare for Interviews: Practice common interview questions and scenarios. Understand the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) technique for structuring your answers effectively.

By understanding the graduate landscape, knowing what to expect, and preparing thoroughly, you can enhance your employability and navigate the transition from education to employment successfully.

What is graduate employment like?

Once you secure a graduate job, understanding what to expect in your new role can help you transition smoothly from education to employment.

• Onboarding and Training: Most graduate employers provide structured onboarding and training programs to help new hires acclimate to their roles and the company culture. This period is crucial for learning job-specific skills and understanding your responsibilities.

• Career Progression: Graduates can expect various opportunities for career progression. Many organizations offer clear career paths with regular performance reviews and opportunities for advancement. Some may also support further education and professional development.

• Work-Life Balance: Balancing work and personal life is important. Graduate roles can sometimes involve long hours, especially in sectors like finance or consulting. However, many companies are increasingly offering flexible working arrangements to support better work-life balance.

Work Culture: If you're an international student and hoping to secure employment in the UK, there are likely some differences in work culture in the UK. Some things to research and look out for might be working hours, employee benefits and pay and recognition. There might also be some differences here in the UK, such as the social culture associated with work. For example, the UK work environment is known for tea breaks or work socials, such as socialising with going for a drink after-work.