Finding guidance and confidence
“I was feeling lost,” Oliver reflects. “I didn’t really know what I was doing. I had ideas, but no real direction. Meeting Sandy changed that.”
Sandy began by helping Oliver explore career possibilities aligned with his interests and degree.
They discussed opportunities in the police service, roles at the University of Exeter, and more.
She also kept Oliver updated with job postings that matched his skills and interests. But her support went far beyond practical help.
“She helped me rewrite my CV and cover letters and gave me interview prep advice, all of which was incredibly helpful,” Oliver explains.
“But what really made the biggest difference was the confidence she gave me. I honestly didn’t think I could make it.
I felt like I wasn’t good enough, that I’d never get a job. Sandy helped me see my own potential.”
Staying persistent through challenges
As Oliver continued applying for roles in the political field, Sandy encouraged him to stay persistent, even when opportunities seemed slim and his confidence dipped.
Living in a remote area, he also faced practical challenges with access to jobs, but Sandy’s encouragement helped him stay motivated.
Landing the first political role
Recently, Oliver took a chance and applied for an entry-level political liaison role with a charity in another city, even though the application deadline was fast approaching.
He landed an interview and, the very next day, received a call offering him the job.
“Even when I was unsure about applying for a job that was closing soon, I remembered something a friend once told me: ‘You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.’ That advice really stuck with me.”
Now, Oliver is preparing to relocate for his new role, supporting the charity in increasing awareness of its campaigns and engaging with relevant stakeholders to encourage positive outcomes, a perfect first step in the field he’s passionate about.
Advice for other graduates
For other new graduates facing uncertainty and self-doubt, Oliver offers this advice:
“Don’t doubt your own talents. Everyone is in the same boat at the start. Be confident that you have something valuable to offer.
“Keep trying new things until something works. Be persistent. Hold on to the belief that your opportunity will come.”
The value of support
When asked about the most valuable part of his journey with the National Careers Service, Oliver doesn’t hesitate:
“The best thing was the encouragement from Sandy. She’s so friendly, so personable, she really gets to know you and genuinely wants to help.
“The practical advice was important, but the confidence-building and emotional support were what helped me keep going.”
A new beginning
Thanks to Sandy’s guidance, Oliver has gone from feeling stuck and uncertain to starting an exciting new chapter in a career he’s passionate about.
His story is a testament to the power of supportive, personalised career advice, and the resilience that comes from believing in yourself.
If you’d like to find out more about National Careers Service and the free support on offer, please call 📞 0800 100 900 or visit 💻nationalcareers.service.gov.uk
