Personal circumstances and needs

Each of us has our own list of important factors that will affect our choices of possible job options or potential employers. These might relate to skills, interests and motivations, but sometimes decisions are based on personal circumstances, practical needs or physical constraints.

 

Identify any personal needs you have or constraints that could have a practical impact on the decisions you make. Some common personal circumstances and needs are given below but add your own if appropriate.

 

I want to work in a particular location (e.g.city, region or country)

Try the Jobs, placements and work experience section of our Information resource. It includes links to regional vacancy databases

I need to earn a salary over the average graduate salary level of £23,000 in order to meet my financial commitments

The High Flyers report,  Graduate market in 2017 has details of the top recruiters and the areas of work attracting top salaries.

I need a particular pattern of hours of work (part-time, 9 - 5, regular, etc)

Search the Job profiles of Prospects.ac.uk which includes typical working hours

The organisation needs to have a positive attitude towards my gender and sexuality

Use the website Stonewall Proud employers as a starting point to researching LGBT positive employers. Targetjobs, Diversity matters also includes useful information and advice.

I need an organisation with a family friendly work policy

The top 30 family friendly organisations are listed under Working families. However, there are many more. Check out the organisation's website if you are interested in working for them

I need an organisation that has a positive attitude to my disability and will help me access the reasonable adjustments I need to perform my duties

Start with Targetjobs Disability and mental health: diversity matters

I want to work in an an ethical environment

Try the Ethical consumer - ratings website which rates the ethics of companies.

I have a criminal conviction and will need an organization that will consider me fairly in the recruitment process

Read tips on Targetjobs People with a criminal record: diversity matters

 

Keep these in mind when considering career decisions and if these relate to you, then the resources in Find out more will help you research and identify appropriate organisations and opportunities.