As we move into September, many graduates who took a well-earned break over the summer are now getting serious about their job search. After three or four intense years of study, it’s no surprise some needed time to decompress before diving into the next chapter. But now? They’re switched on, refreshed, and ready to start their careers.
At Step, we support hundreds of small and medium-sized businesses across the UK who recruit graduates all year round. That includes companies in FMCG, tech, creative industries, and professional services. Many bring graduates in during late summer or early autumn to get stuck into live projects or plug key gaps.
Think it’s too late to hire a graduate?
You wouldn’t be the first to think so. We often hear: “Everyone good’s been snapped up” or “We should’ve started this months ago.” But here’s the reality: graduate job boards are buzzing again. Thousands of switched-on, job-ready grads are actively looking right now.
Some didn’t apply for graduate schemes earlier in the year. Others tried and didn’t land the right thing. Either way, they’re motivated, available, and ready to go.
What makes autumn grads stand out:
- They can start immediately
- They’re clearer on what they want
- They tend to be more focused and responsive
Why this works in your favour
Larger graduate employers often stick to strict annual hiring cycles. SMEs don’t have to.
If you’ve got a spike in workload or a new client win, you need someone in quickly, not in six months. That’s why early autumn is such a good fit. You can move fast, bring someone in when the need arises, and avoid the high-competition rush later in the year.
It also means:
- No long lead times
- Less competition for top candidates
- A more agile process that suits how you already work
Hiring graduates isn’t about volume; it’s about finding the right fit for your business
It’s easy to assume that graduates only want to join graduate schemes at well-known brands. But we see something different every day: graduates actively choosing smaller businesses where they can roll up their sleeves, learn fast, and be part of something real.
They’re not chasing a logo, they’re looking for meaningful experience. They want variety, responsibility, and the chance to make a difference.
That’s exactly what SMEs can offer.
Step helps you find the right people, quickly
We specialise in SME recruitment, and we make the process straightforward and efficient.
If you need someone sharp and ready to go, we’ll help you:
- Get your role in front of the right people
- Screen and shortlist quality candidates
- Manage the process quickly and clearly
We won’t flood your inbox with CVs, we’ll only send people who fit the brief and are genuinely interested in your opportunity.
Make the most of the autumn window
There are talented graduates out there right now, ready to get started. If you’ve got a role to fill, whether it’s for a project, a longer-term opportunity, or just some extra support, this is your moment to act.
Get in touch with Step to find out how we can help you hire smart, fast, and without the faff.