A organisation has the advantage of a structured training programme with a variety of different experience, leading to a management position. Those applicants who, instead, go directly into a job will be expected to be productive immediately and this means they are likely to earn more at first. But the starting salary is only part of the deal: you need to think about the transferable skills you will develop which will take you into your next job.

This is where a job with a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME) can help. These companies might not advertise at careers fairs or in the national press, but this is a huge sector that you should not overlook. It’s a hidden job market and you will have to be more proactive in finding vacancies, but these jobs offer the chance to get immersed in an organisation and learn much more.

Another factor is the choice between the public sector – for example, education, healthcare, or the civil service – and the private sector. The public sector is heavily unionised and encourages flexible working arrangements and good training. Although organisations vary, they tend to be fairly hierarchical. Job security is a big plus. The private sector can be more volatile but you are more likely to find a fast-moving, young organisation where you may be able to progress quickly.

If none of these appeal, how about working for yourself? You may be one of the few job seekers who go directly into self-employment. Again, you need to think about the working environment: many people like the social side of work, but if you are happy to work on your own this may suit you.

Things to consider when choosing an employer:

• Location: most public sector jobs are still based in cities.

• Culture: traditional, innovative, or informal?
• Training: will you acquire transferable skills for your next job?