Graduate placement usually takes place at universities. Multinationals and large companies that are looking for future managers run programmes on university campuses. These programmes are well advertised, and students who are interested can apply to attend.

Companies take the students with the best results in the subjects most closely related to their line of business. As their programmes are set up individually, they are all different; however, there will be certain common factors in what companies are looking for.

Because they are looking for future managers, companies may run graduate development exercises that test leadership and teamwork qualities, and assess personal presentation and style. They may do IQ tests that mark personality, charisma and innovation.

The process is similar to how Google recently found their newest technician: they placed a complex mathematical equation on a billboard highway in Silicon Valley. Only those who could solve the equation qualified for an interview.

The most successful students on graduate recruitment and development programmes are offered placement with their target companies. Certain large organisations also sponsor students, and this may be related to obtaining a bursary (see bursaries).

It’s important when pursuing a graduate development program that you perform at your best, as this is your opportunity to launch your career.