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Recruiting international students and graduates

At the University of Bradford, we are privileged to host many international students from around 100 different countries

Here are some ways your organisation can benefit:

  • Help to fill skill shortages: International students often bring a diverse set of skills and experiences. Hiring them can help address skill gaps within your organisation. Expand your talent pool: By considering international students, you expand your potential talent pool, accessing individuals with unique perspectives and qualifications. New perspectives and ideas: International students can bring fresh ideas and diverse perspectives to your organisation, fostering innovation and creativity. Increased diversity: Hiring international students contributes to a more diverse workplace, which has been shown to enhance productivity and creativity. 
  • Boost your brand awareness, internationally: Having a diverse workforce that includes international talent can enhance your organisation's reputation on a global scale. 
  • Global client management: International hires may bring cultural insights that can be beneficial when dealing with clients or customers from various backgrounds. 
  • Part-time work or casual roles: International students are often seeking part-time work opportunities during their studies, providing your organisation with a flexible workforce. 
  • Internships or placements: Offering internships or placements to international students can be mutually beneficial. They gain valuable work experience, and your organisation benefits from their skills and global perspectives. 
  • Roles that require prior experience: Consider connecting with our students who may have the specialist skills or experience that you are looking. 
  • Graduate Visa Route: The UK's graduate visa route allows international students to work in the country for up to two years after completing their course. This offers a flexible option for employers without the need for company sponsorship. 
  • Sponsoring via the Skilled Worker Visa Route: If you're looking for longer-term commitments, holding a sponsor licence allows your organisation to recruit international graduates through a more straightforward application process.

Feedback from previous employers

Snave UK – Huddersfield

"Our collaboration with the University of Bradford has been instrumental in harnessing the potential of international students in the software development sector, significantly contributing to both our growth and the local community. Initially challenged by the difficulty in attracting local workforce, we turned this challenge into an opportunity by tapping into the rich talent pool of Bradford's international students… As well as fostering the growth of our company, this approach has also invigorated the local tech industry. The presence of these students in our workforce has been a cornerstone in developing cutting-edge technology… Our experience stands as a testament to the value of integrating international student talent into local businesses, proving that such partnerships can catalyse technological advancement and economic development in regions that might otherwise be overlooked."

 

- Bradford District Credit Union

"We recently employed an international graduate who brought a diverse set of skills and experiences to our credit union. His international background provided a unique perspective and cultural insight that enriched our team dynamics. His adaptability and resilience, demonstrated through his successful navigation of studying and living abroad, translated well into our fast-paced work environment, allowing him to quickly acclimatise and contribute positively to the role and organisation.  

 

While the Yorkshire region boasts a talented workforce, the international perspective and cultural competence demonstrated by our international graduate are not always readily available in the local talent pool. Therefore, hiring an international graduate provided us with access to a unique skill set and flexible work ethic that complemented our existing team and added value to our operations… 

  

Overall, our experience of hiring an international graduate was positive with excellent support and guidance from the University who helped us navigate the recruitment process smoothly. For employers considering hiring international graduates, I recommend fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment that values diversity and cultural exchange, as this will facilitate the integration and success of international hires. Finally, be prepared to invest time and resources in onboarding and training international graduates to ensure a smooth transition into your organisation and maximise their potential contributions."

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