Starting your career after university is exciting, but the world of graduate applications can feel like it has a secret language. You’ve mastered your degree, but now you’re faced with job descriptions full of vague terms and processes that don't always make logical sense.
Many neurodivergent professionals find these "unwritten rules" particularly frustrating. You might excel at the actual work, but getting through the application process is a huge hurdle. This isn't about you lacking skills; it's about navigating a system that often doesn't communicate clearly.
At Diversity-Lock, we know the problem isn't with neurodivergent talent, but with the structural barriers in place. Let’s break down some of these unwritten rules so you can confidently tackle graduate applications.
1. Decoding Job Descriptions: What They Really Mean
Job descriptions are often filled with buzzwords. For a neurodivergent mind that thrives on clarity, this can be incredibly confusing. You might take every word literally, but recruiters often use shorthand.
"Excellent Communication Skills":
What you might think: Being a flawless public speaker, never making a grammatical error, or being highly charismatic.
What they often mean: Being able to clearly explain your work, ask for help when needed, listen to instructions, and write professional emails. It's about effective information exchange, not theatrical performance.
"Team Player":
What you might think: Constantly socialising, joining every office event, or always agreeing with others.
What they often mean: Contributing to shared goals, completing your tasks on time so others can do theirs, and being open to collaboration when necessary. It's about reliability and contribution, not forced camaraderie.
"Proactive" / "Self-Starter":
What you might think: Anticipating every single problem before it arises, or always finding new tasks without being asked.
What they often mean: Taking initiative to solve problems within your remit, asking clarifying questions rather than waiting endlessly, and managing your own workload efficiently. It’s about taking responsibility for your work.
Your Action: When you see these phrases, think about how you demonstrate these qualities in a practical, task-oriented way. Don't try to fit a neurotypical mould; describe your effective approach.
2. The CV/Resume: Beyond Just Your Grades
Your CV isn't just a list of achievements; it's a marketing document designed to get you an interview. Recruiters spend very little time on each CV, so clarity and relevance are key.
Tailor, Don't Copy-Paste:
The Rule: Your CV should be slightly different for every single job you apply for.
Why: Recruiters want to see that you've read their specific job description and truly understand what they need. They are looking for keywords and direct relevance.
How to do it: Highlight experiences and skills that directly match the job description. If the job asks for "data analysis," make sure your CV clearly shows where you've done that. If it's not relevant, remove it or rephrase it.
Focus on Impact, Not Just Duties:
The Rule: Instead of just listing what you did, explain what you achieved and the impact of your work.
Why: Recruiters want to see results. Did your project save time? Improve a process? Contribute to a good grade?
How to do it: Use action verbs and quantify where possible.
Instead of: "Responsible for managing social media."
Try: "Managed social media, increasing engagement by 15% over six months."
Instead of: "Wrote essays."
Try: "Researched and authored 10+ academic essays, consistently achieving high distinctions."
3. Cover Letters: Your Chance to Connect the Dots
Many applicants skip cover letters or write generic ones. This is a missed opportunity. A good cover letter directly links your skills and experiences to their specific job and company.
Show You've Done Your Research:
The Rule: Mention something specific about the company or the role that genuinely interests you.
Why: It shows you're not just sending out hundreds of applications. It proves you've put in effort.
How to do it: Reference a specific project, a company value, or an area of their work you find exciting. For example, "I was particularly drawn to [Company Name]'s recent work on [Specific Project] because it aligns with my interest in [Your Specific Skill/Interest]."
Directly Address the Requirements:
The Rule: Use the cover letter to specifically explain how you meet the core requirements of the job description.
Why: It makes the recruiter's job easier. They can quickly see you’re a good fit.
How to do it: Pick 2-3 key requirements from the job description and dedicate a paragraph to each, explaining how your experiences (academic, volunteer, personal projects) fit.
4. The Online Application Form: Persistence is Key
Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and online forms that can be frustrating. These systems often look for keywords.
Be Thorough and Precise:
The Rule: Fill in every section completely and accurately.
Why: Incomplete applications can be automatically rejected. The ATS scans for keywords that match the job description.
How to do it: Copy-paste information from your tailored CV, but be careful with formatting. If there’s a box for "skills," list them clearly. If asked for "key achievements," provide specific examples.
Remember: It's About Finding the Right Fit
Applying for jobs can feel like trying to guess a password, especially when you think and process information differently. These "unwritten rules" exist because the system assumes everyone thinks the same way.
Your goal isn't to change who you are; it's to understand how the system works so you can navigate it effectively. The right employer will value your unique strengths and clarity. Use these tips to get your foot in the door and demonstrate the incredible value you bring.