​There’s no doubt your university degree will provide you with the theoretical knowledge you need to start your career, but a placement year offers valuable experience that can give you an advantage in the world of work.If you’re due to start your placement in July or August, here are some top tips on how you can get the most out of your placement year.Ask questions, lots of themThis is a time for learning, so make sure to put yours to good use! No question is a silly question – be sure to ask advice and tips from those around you to learn more about your role, the business and the industry you’re in. Making the extra effort can make a big difference on placement and shows you are keen to learn.Don’t be afraid to make mistakesThe whole point of a placement is to learn on the job and develop as a person, so it’s only natural to make mistakes now and then. Instead of worrying, be sure to take things in your stride. Evaluate what went wrong and how you would approach it differently next time. Record your achievementsA year may sound like a long time, but when you’re working a 9-5 time goes faster than you think! To help with your studies, CVs and interviews in the future, be sure to list your key achievements and projects from your time on placement. Build your professional networks In your role, you’re going to be in an environment with plenty of new people – whether it's previous graduates, CEOs or other professionals. Now is the perfect opportunity to get to know your colleagues and potentially past students who have been in your position. You never know when a connection may help you in the future!Consider personal goalsTake this time to consider what you want to achieve out of your placement – is there any specific area you want to explore? Personal goals are just as important, and a placement can help you understand what career you want in the future. Now you’re all caught up, we wish you all the best in your placement year. We’re sure you’re going to do ace!

​The skills you gain at university are ones that you can take with you in any career, whether its IT, sales, marketing or business development. These transferable skills include anything from communication and teamwork to critical thinking, and can be the difference in securing your next role.Here are the top traits graduate recruiters are looking for in their next candidate: -          AdaptabilityOne trait employers like to see is adaptability – the ability to handle any situation and task given to you. As a graduate, chances are you’ll be new to the working environment, so showing you can learn on the spot is a must. -          Teamwork Throughout your studies, you will have worked on shared projects and built positive relationships. In the corporate world, you need to prove you can be a team player, supporting others in achieving goals and business objects. -          Problem solvingIn any new role, you’re likely to make mistakes at first, so showing you can resolve issues effectively is important. Make sure to bring with you a fresh perspective in the workplace to approach problems from different angles. -          Organisation As a student, you’ll be used to managing deadlines and submitting assignments on time. And the real-working world is no different! You will be expected to prioritise tasks and work productively, so managing your time well is essential. -          Commercial awarenessOne of the biggest differences you’ll encounter is the way businesses work. Being able think from a corporate point of view is important to develop your understanding of what the organise wants to achieve, and how you can help them get there.