If you are like the majority of final year students, you havent been planning your search for a job since the beginning of the academic year. With finals to swot for and a part-time job to pay at least a few of the bills, its no wonder that most students leave job-hunting to the last minute.

However, as finals approach, the realisation dawns that once the exams are out of the way, the future is uncertain and without a job on the horizon, the financial situation is bleak.

If you find yourself experiencing this scenario dont panic. Try to step back from the situation and think about it calmly. At the moment, your main concern is getting through the exams, but studying all the time is counter-productive. So take at least a few hours a week to consider your career.

Instead of spending Friday and Saturday evening in the pub, take a bit of time off to think about the future. Remember, that no matter how difficult it seems, you only need one job. So focus on what you really want.

If you already know which career or industry you want to work in, take a look at the websites of relevant graduate employers. Be honest with yourself about the likelihood that your experience and qualifications will match their expectations. Check when they are hiring and have a look at the application forms in advance if you can.

Many companies now use online applications and you may have to do some tests before getting as far as the actual application form. Make sure you do these when you are rested and calm, not when you are hung over or nervous because you have an exam coming up. Prepare your answers for application forms in advance. You may be able to view the questions or save a partly completed form, but if not, you will be able to get a general idea once youve completed one or two. You could try applying for a job which is not necessarily your ideal. If you dont produce a good application, it isnt the end of the world and youll have an idea what to expect next time.

If you arent sure which career path you want to take, book an appointment with your university or college career service this may be the last time you can get free advice, so make the most of it!

Think carefully about where you would like to be in five or ten years time. Have a look at graduate directories to see which companies fit your aspirations and are currently hiring. Once youve identified a few which appeal to you, research them in as much detail as possible, both on and offline. Dont underestimate your abilities, but at the same time be aware that there are many more graduates on the market these days and so dont aim for jobs for which you dont have the right qualifications.

Make sure your CV is up to date and target it for each job. Likewise, take care to complete applications forms with the specific post in mind. If you take the time to focus and prepare well, a few good applications should produce more interviews than hundreds of forms churned out with little thought.

Waller Jamison 2006