LCF Graduate Futures host Selfridges with insider tips on securing roles

LCF Graduate Futures were joined by recruitment specialists from Selfridges as they shared their advice on applying for advertised and speculative roles. The only store to named the 'Best Department Store in the World' four times at the Global Department Store Summit, meant that demand was high, and the room packed with students desperate to understand the application process and apply to current vacancies at Selfridges.

Selfridges prides itself on being a landmark destination and social centre where everyone is welcome. The store has an expansive cultural programme, platforming the most innovative, emerging artists, designers, and new brands. The Selfridges empire has grown from the original flagship store in London, to openings in Birmingham and two stores in Manchester. Selfridges hires across multiple departments including visual merchandising and buying, HR, PR, marketing and communications, finance, e-commerce, product development, styling, photography, graphic design, art direction, production and manufacturing. On average Selfridges receive 42,000 job applications a year, so the advice they give on making applications stands out.

Essential pre-work for job seekers is to ensure the CV and portfolio and LinkedIn are up to date. The HR consultants stressed the power of using LinkedIn as a networking tool and platform for showcasing skills, current projects and gaining certificates from LinkedIn Learning.

90% of recruiters use LinkedIn to source prospective candidates.

Adding and sending a post application message to recruiters and hiring managers on LinkedIn was a helpful tip given by Selfridges. Speculative applications can also be sent on LinkedIn with the recommended timeframe being one month before being available to start work. Be purposeful in messages and speculative applications, include your CV and portfolio if required.

When applying to advertised vacancies, a CV should include contact details, a short personal statement, qualifications, work experience, skills, hobbies, and interests. If an advertised role requires a portfolio ensure that this builds a picture of your practice, taste and style, that it reflects your creative abilities and discipline. Selfridges stressed that a portfolio is your personal marketing tool and should be a collection of your best work. Ensure that your portfolio is tailored to the company you are applying to, have a digital and physical copy and seek feedback from others.

A student who attended the event reported back that it was "uplifting" and that they would reach out to Selfridges for part time work and placement opportunities. By following the above advice and tips for applying and making speculative applications this will boost the chances of employment at Selfridges.

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