After the banking crisis of 2008, graduates faced similar anxieties to the class of 2020, entering a tough graduate labour market amid the job cuts and recruitment freezes during a global recession. What can their experiences teach final-year students and 2020 leavers? We have caught up with LJMU alumni who graduated during the last major economic downturn. They share their reflections on what it was like to graduate into a contracting job market, give tips for staying motivated and resilient, and ultimately provide a message of positivity and reassurance of turning a time of crisis into opportunity. Click on their names below to read or watch their full stories and tips for the class of 2020.

Chris Marsh, Building Surveying graduate, highlights the importance of speculative applications and tailored CVs.

Liam Knowles, Accounting and Finance graduate, went from shaky start to Finance Director by the age of 33 and shares his tips for career success.

Andrew Roberts, Building Surveying graduate, used savings and professional contacts to set up his own successful business, and retains a positive outlook both for his company and the class of 2020.

Matt Burns, Information Systems graduate, shares his thoughts on the importance of considering options in growth sectors.

Sinead O’Hare, Quantity Surveying graduate, reflects on finding career success abroad.