Getting a UK work visa without having secured a job in advance is possible, but it will be more difficult than if you had already secured employment. In order to obtain a UK work visa without having found employment first, you need to prove that you have enough money available to support yourself while looking for work and demonstrate how you plan on supporting yourself until such time as employment is obtained. You must also prove that your skills are suitable for the UK labour market, meaning they meet the criteria outlined by the Home Office’s Statement of Intent. Finally, applicants need to show evidence of previous experience working in similar roles or industries, as well as references from past employers who can vouch for your suitability for any potential role. It's important to note that even if all these requirements are met there may still be difficulty in obtaining a successful outcome due to restricted quotas set by the government each year regarding which countries receive visas. Ultimately though with patience and perseverance obtaining a UK work visa without prior employment is possible but requires extra diligence when going through the application process.