The Open University

Take control of your job search: channel your inner mole

28 July 2026

Feeling like your job search has you fumbling around in the dark? It might be time to channel your inner mole. Dig down – informational interviewing is one of the quickest ways to get real‑world insight into roles you’re curious about. Use it to uncover what a job actually involves, the skills employers value, and […]

Succeed by letting go of your “dream career” – James’ story

8 July 2026

“it kind of stopped my career… it’s like if you wanted to be a footballer but suddenly breaking your leg and not able to fulfil your dreams anymore…” For OU student James, being a helicopter pilot was the dream job that he’d always been “dead set” on. But then, due to medical reasons, his flying […]

Tourette’s and your career

1 July 2026

Moving from university to employment as a neurodivergent student can feel daunting, especially for those with conditions like Tourette’s Syndrome (TS). TS is a neurodevelopmental condition that involves involuntary tics, which can affect daily life and influence career choices. Although it can present challenges, many people with TS — including musicians Lewis Capaldi, Billie Eilish […]

OCD and your career

1 July 2026

Career decision making can bring the excitement of new opportunities and experiences, but the uncertainty involved can be challenging, often triggering anxiety and flare ups, for those with OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder). OCD involves a cycle of intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours or mental acts (compulsions), which can be distressing and interfere with daily […]

Read more about OCD and your career

Careers research tips for students with dyslexia

23 April 2026

“When I read long job descriptions, I lose the thread. But when I talk things through, everything clicks.” Undergraduate OU student with dyslexia. Exploring career ideas can be a challenge when you’re dyslexic, especially if traditional text-heavy resources don’t play to your strengths. Start with your strengths Build your future with career confidence by identifying […]

Moving from university to employment as a neurodivergent student with Josh from Evenbreak

10 April 2026

Josh Wright is the Candidate and Partnerships Coordinator at Evenbreak, a global disability job board run by and for disabled people. For the past three years, he has worked closely with universities, supporting students and staff by showcasing the resources and opportunities Evenbreak provides. View Evenbreak’s graduate and internship opportunities and listen to discussing your […]

Strengthen your job-hunting skills

31 March 2026

Watch this introduction to Gradcracker, one of the UK’s leading platforms for early career opportunities. In the video, Gradcracker Marketing Director Jessica shows how it can help you discover different career pathways and make informed career choices. Gradcracker is a great place to explore the labour market. Make sure you read our OU Labour Market […]

Job-hunting tips for students/graduates with Autism

18 March 2026

It’s much harder for people with Autism to find the same information; everyone else just seems to magically know things! Victoria, OU graduate with Autism Job seeking can be demanding for anyone, and students with Autism also tell me about some unique challenges they face. As an OU Careers Consultant, here are the top three […]

Back to basics 1: the unwritten rules of the job hunt

11 February 2026

Navigating the world of job applications can feel like trying to crack a secret code – from ambiguous phrases in job adverts to knowing what to wear to an interview. The good news? These “unwritten rules” can be learned, and understanding them will help you feel more confident and prepared. What do employers really mean? […]