Employers know exactly what makes young people stand out - and what holds them back. In these short videos, employers share honest advice on the skills, attitudes and behaviours they look for when hiring.
Discover what employers value most, from communication and confidence to resilience, initiative and a positive work ethic. Whether you're preparing for interviews, applying for apprenticeships, considering university or taking your first steps into the world of work, these insights will help you understand what employers really want.
Hear directly from employers, learn what makes candidates memorable, and gain practical advice you can use today.
"Someone who can communicate really well, hold a conversation, is polite, and generally happy — that's what stands out to us."
"If you're looking to get into payroll, ideally you'd have a good understanding of numbers — if you liked maths at school, it's a great fit. We do a lot of troubleshooting, so someone who likes puzzles, and is articulate too."
"Just make contact with us — it's that easy."
Lorraine Barber, Wincombe Payrolls
"The students who really stand out to us show innovation, determination, and real commitment to the industry — and having work experience or a part-time job is really important too."
"If you're looking to come into HR, I'd really recommend a part-time job — working in a bar or café, interacting with people. Demonstrating good communication skills through basic roles is so vital to succeeding in our industry."
"Reach out and give HR consultants a call. We take on at least two students a year for work experience — if you show willingness and determination, employers are far more likely to make time for you."
Gemma Murphy, Managing Director & Employment Solicitor
"Someone who's really passionate about what they want to do — that comes across, and it's the most important thing."
"Make sure your CV stands out and shows your personality."
"Having a really good LinkedIn profile helps too — join groups in the industry, make comments, connect with people. The more you're seen, the easier it is to start conversations that lead to your first job."
"For work experience, it's the same thing — connect with people, offer your services, show them what you've got. Companies are often looking for something specific, but if you can show them something special, something different, that makes all the difference."
Victoria Rottens, Founder of Brand Bamboo, Growth Marketing & Design Agency
"You need a really well-written CV — no spelling mistakes, nicely formatted, and you need to present yourself well."
"Be confident and able to communicate what you want from us, and what you want from your career. You're not just offering yourself — you're finding out what we can do for you too."
"If you're seeking your first job in law, take any opportunity — reception, admin, anything to get your foot in the doorand impress people with your knowledge and work ethic."
"Look for law firms in your area, even ones not advertising, and email the practice manager or HR directly. It doesn't have to be a formal vacancy — get in there, make yourself known, introduce yourself."
Solicitors, New Forest — Private Client & Property Services
"What's amazing is the enthusiasm to develop yourself and get involved in as many opportunities as possible. The biggest thing for students to stand out is to be commercially aware — research organisations, understand their industry, and follow them."
"To get your first job, you need a strong CV with experiences that align with the industry you want to go into — internships, placements, or networking events all help build that up."
"Make sure you've got a strong LinkedIn — showcase what you do, follow relevant people and companies, and stay up to date with the industry. Networking is the biggest way to get any work experience — as we always say, your network is your next work."
University of Southampton Business School, Careers, Employability, Placements & Alumni Relations
"We're not so worried about qualifications — you can teach core skills. It's more about aptitude, passion, and demonstrating you've got home labs and actually want to do something."
"If you can show you've played around with things on your own steam, have the desire to learn off your own back, and can bring fresh thinking into an organisation — that stands out."
"We're growing through apprenticeships, because I learned my trade that way, and it's good to give that opportunity back. You can't really learn cyber in a classroom — real-world experience through companies like us is invaluable."
Martin Bent, Founder of Castra Solutions — Cybersecurity & Connectivity
"Are you a young person trying to land your first job but not sure what employers are really looking for? Carol G, Apprenticeship Specialist at HRUC, shares valuable insights to help you stand out, gain experience, and take your first step into the working world."
"This interview covers: what makes a candidate stand out to employers, practical advice for securing your first job in Interior Design, and how to gain relevant work experience with little or none."
"Whether you're a school leaver, graduate, or just starting out, this video is packed with real-world advice from an experienced employer."
Carol G,Apprenticeship Specialist-HRUC
"If you're coming to Careys Manor for a job, the most important thing is to be warm and welcoming — a smile always helps, even if you're nervous."
"We give lots of training here — you won't know all the answers when you first start, but a warm smile and explaining you're new will get you a long way."
"We're always looking for work experience — keep trying different businesses, and consider voluntary work too. It's a great way to build business connections and experience."
Louise Harrington, Careys Manor Hotel — Events
"We're looking for a keenness to learn, a positive outlook, being presentable, good time keeping, and willing to work as part of the team."
"Willing to learn, not afraid to ask questions, and able to stay calm under pressure."
"Just apply to different payroll companies and offer to help — do some volunteering work, and maybe take a qualification in payroll too."
Payroll Perfection Limited
"Someone who can think on their feet, is adaptable, and able to carry themselves with different people — rural professionals, clients — contributing their own ideas and opinions."
"Try to get some work experience — through school, college, weekends, or volunteering at an interior design shop. Present yourself well: make eye contact, be happy to shake hands, and speak clearly."
"It's really about on-the-job practice — work experience at school or college, or writing to design practices that run mentoring programmes. Just reach out to as many people as possible."
Interior Designer
Enter your details below to join the challenge.
