Zahid Mitha has rejected a job offer from Diageo and interest from City firms to launch a start-up that turns preparing for driving theory tests into an online game. In a depressed job market, has the 22-year-old Nottingham University graduate taken leave of his senses? “There are options other than applying for 20 graduate jobs you don’t really care about,” he says.
Mr Mitha is at least in good company. He has spent the last two weeks at a “boot camp” at Cambridge University, where graduate entrepreneurs from across the UK have been learning from experienced investors and business owners about everything from marketing to management and raising finance.
The boot camp is part of Entrepreneur First, a national initiative to encourage talented graduates to start businesses instead of taking a job. Matt Clifford and Alice Bentinck, the young managers of the scheme, say the fortnight may have been short on drill sergeants, cross country runs and push-ups, but the graduate founders have at least been “confronted with the tough reality of what creating and running a start-up entails”.
Inspired by Teach First, the initiative which sees promising graduates teach in struggling schools, Entrepreneur First has picked 30 graduates from hundreds of applications from across the UK for the inaugural year of the programme. The successful crop have spent the past few months forming small teams and preparing for Monday morning, when they will officially start running their businesses from a shared office in east London.
After another four months of subsidised office rent, tutoring in areas such as accounting and PR, and visits from the likes of Autonomy founder Mike Lynch, Innocent’s Adam Balon and Betfair founder Ed Wray, their ventures will live or die on their own merits. Is this the point where they will start longing for the relative security of a graduate job?
Not according to Leo Anthias, 22, who is establishing a firm which will allow companies to collaborate on corporate presentations. He had run a small business selling vintage suits while studying for an English and History degree at St Andrews but looked to be heading for the City until he heard about the scheme.
“I never seriously considered this was a possibility for a graduate,” he says. “I always thought that you needed 10 years’ experience at something more conventional before launching a company. Entrepreneur First changed that thinking.”
Now he believes graduates are in a perfect position to try their hands at running a business rather than working in one. “It’s a uniquely good age to start a company,” he says. “There’s less risk than if I’m invested in a job and used to earning a lot of money. I don’t have experience of working in a corporate environment for years, but I think that can be a positive — you’ve got a fresh perspective instead of the tunnel vision you get in some industries.”
Almost all of the graduates in the first year of the not-for-profit scheme — which is sponsored by Microsoft, Silicon Valley Bank and consulting firm McKinsey — are starting technology companies. Mr Clifford says that’s no accident.
“The most common reason people are sceptical about this is that graduates have no experience, they don’t know anyone or anything,” he says. “The great thing about tech is that [starting a company] is cheap, fast and the founders can be credible — on the internet, there’s that saying, 'no one knows you’re a dog.’ No one knows you’re 21 either. If the product’s good enough, you’re good enough. But if you’re trying to negotiate leases on a retail franchise, being 21 might be a problem.”
Emily Brooke, a university of Brighton graduate, is an exception to the scheme’s focus on tech start-ups. The 26 year-old has developed a patented bike light which, she says, can tackle the “biggest cause of fatalities for cyclists” — vehicles manoeuvring into cyclists they haven’t seen. Her product, Blaze, projects a light into motorists’ blind spots, day or night. She says Entrepreneur First has “clarified how much money it takes to get these things off the ground”, but arguably of more value are the contacts the experience has provided, whom she expects to provide manufacturing leads and legal advice.
“My next fortnight is full of meetings with people who I’ve met through this programme. I’ve got a plan, and a vision, and I know I can do it, so I’m excited,” she says.
Mr Clifford and Ms Bentinck are in talks with more sponsors to expand Entrepreneur First, which, they argue, provides an example of how graduates’ employability can be improved. “We’ve got a big vision for this, much bigger than this year,” Mr Clifford says. “The future of graduate training — turning them into economically valuable, employable people — will have more to do with entrepreneurship than it does now. We’re training them in [skills] and mindsets they can use for the rest of their careers.”
“We fully understand that some of our guys, maybe even most, won’t make it [as entrepreneurs] but if it doesn’t work out, they’ll be very valuable as employees,” Ms Bentinck adds.
While the scheme is aimed at high fliers, Mr Mitha believes it will prove that any enterprising graduate has a viable alternative to firing off CVs to giant firms: “You can do it young. As Leo says, in many ways, it’s the very best time.”
Source: James Hurley, Telegraph.co.uk, Friday 31st August 2012
Jobsbody provides a dynamic forum in which businesses can view and connect with graduates.
Friday 31 August 2012
Thursday 30 August 2012
Would a “social stigma” stop you accepting a £50,000 per year job?
We like to keep graduates in the loop. Last week, we brought you the news that graduates are increasingly valuing job satisfaction over a good salary. And this week it has come to light that graduates are prizing their reputations over a sizeable pay slip, with reports that investment banks have been forced to raise their starting salaries to attract top graduates amid a backlash against recent financial scandals.
The rise is enforced as student unions and university debates have been busy criticising the banks this year in the wake of the Libor scandal and numerous money-laundering charges, and the “social stigma” of working at a bank surfaces once again.
Jon Terry, partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers who advises all the top banks on pay levels, said: “There is no doubt that 'banker bashing’ and the scandals at the banks are impacting graduate decisions about going into the City. The importance of reputation seems to have gone up tremendously. Money is only part of the equation for grads – they don’t want to go to a party and say they work for a bank.”
Starting salaries have been upped to between £45,000 and £50,000 a year (yes, really) at top investment banks, which is a 5% rise from the previous year amid “reputational issues”.
“Graduate pay at investment banks has gone up but this hasn’t happened elsewhere in financial services,” Mr Terry added. “Some of the reputational damage – such as money laundering – has happened in other parts of banking but in the eyes of graduates, as with the wider public, it’s seen as investment banking, not banking at large.”
As a result of this reputational damage, investment banks are struggling to pique the interest of the 2,500 graduates they usually recruit on an annual basis.
Law graduates tend to rake in the second biggest salaries, pocketing around £35,000 a year. However, there are a greater number of well-paid jobs in other sectors that could see you earning well above the average graduate starting salary.
Source: Gradplus.com, Thursday 30th August 2012
The rise is enforced as student unions and university debates have been busy criticising the banks this year in the wake of the Libor scandal and numerous money-laundering charges, and the “social stigma” of working at a bank surfaces once again.
Jon Terry, partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers who advises all the top banks on pay levels, said: “There is no doubt that 'banker bashing’ and the scandals at the banks are impacting graduate decisions about going into the City. The importance of reputation seems to have gone up tremendously. Money is only part of the equation for grads – they don’t want to go to a party and say they work for a bank.”
Starting salaries have been upped to between £45,000 and £50,000 a year (yes, really) at top investment banks, which is a 5% rise from the previous year amid “reputational issues”.
“Graduate pay at investment banks has gone up but this hasn’t happened elsewhere in financial services,” Mr Terry added. “Some of the reputational damage – such as money laundering – has happened in other parts of banking but in the eyes of graduates, as with the wider public, it’s seen as investment banking, not banking at large.”
As a result of this reputational damage, investment banks are struggling to pique the interest of the 2,500 graduates they usually recruit on an annual basis.
Law graduates tend to rake in the second biggest salaries, pocketing around £35,000 a year. However, there are a greater number of well-paid jobs in other sectors that could see you earning well above the average graduate starting salary.
Source: Gradplus.com, Thursday 30th August 2012
Wednesday 29 August 2012
Could Chinese experience aid European austerity?
Competition for internships in Europe is fierce, given the difficult economic circumstances, but among today's generation of students, internships are seen as a fundamental experience for those hoping to land their ideal graduate job in business, finance, law or other competitive graduate sectors.
As a consequence, graduates in Europe are now making their way to China to find work experience; hoping to land their first jobs faster and more easily than their competitors.
According to the Confederation of British Industry Education and Skills Survey in 2011, 82 percent of businesses see experience and skills gained during internships as the single most important consideration when recruiting graduates.
Similarly, a recent survey, The Graduate Market in 2012, discovered that half of all firms said it was unlikely they would employ graduates without any work experience.
In an attempt to adhere to these requirements, an increasing number of students are heading to China, eager to gain relevant work experience.
Angelika Lisek, a 23-year old finance graduate of the University of Glasgow in the UK, completed a two-month placement with an investment bank in Shanghai this summer, and says that potential employers in the UK are more impressed with those that can step out of their comfort zone.
“China is the new centre of the world and having work experience from this fast-growing place makes my CV stand out which should be appealing to employers,” she says.
Internships provide a valuable bridge between academic life and the real professional work environment, enabling students to both apply their theoretical knowledge and at the same time discover which professional sector matches their skills and abilities.
According to the US National Association of Colleges and Employers, in 2012 graduates with an internship on their CV had a 42 percent chance of receiving a job offer compared to 30 percent for those who did not. Average starting salaries for students who took part in internships were also 20 percent higher than for those with no internship experience.
Another student, George Buhai, who also spent a summer in Shanghai on work experience, said it helped secure him a job not long after he returned. His employers were impressed with his ability to navigate the Chinese market place and employed him to a position very similar to the one he held in overseas.
"My work experience in China has definitely impressed my current employer and it has helped my company with several business deals with Chinese businesses” he says.
“I think China was a huge eye-opening experience. The business culture is so different to Europe. It’s important to understand the concept of guanxi when dealing with Chinese business people and I’m glad I have that experience from China”, Buhai continues.
Fredrik van Huynh, Co-Founder and Director of Absolute Internship – the company that facilitated Angelika’s and George’s placements in China - has seen applications for his China internship programme almost triple over the last 12 months.
"Last year we received 700 applications for our China programme," he says. “This year we have received around 2,000 applications and are sending out to China more than 125 students and graduates. Demand for our China internships is increasing and we are happy that our programmes have captured the interest of graduates around the world.”
According to alumni figures released by Absolute Internship, students’ work experience in China is what captures employers’ interests most during job interviews, even above their degree. Today’s employers recognise the benefit of overseas work experience and knowledge of a country which is now the second largest global economy and whose trade with Britain alone grew by 17 percent last year.
Europe has some of the best universities in the world. However, it is clear that from an employer’s standpoint, academic qualifications are just one of several characteristics they consider when recruiting new staff.
As recent graduates seek to set themselves apart in a tough job market with internships overseas, returning to their home countries full of confidence and work experience may just be what is needed to restore Europe’s weak economy to long-term health and prosperity.
Source: Matthew Staff, Businessrevieweurope.eu, Tuesday 28th August 2012
As a consequence, graduates in Europe are now making their way to China to find work experience; hoping to land their first jobs faster and more easily than their competitors.
According to the Confederation of British Industry Education and Skills Survey in 2011, 82 percent of businesses see experience and skills gained during internships as the single most important consideration when recruiting graduates.
Similarly, a recent survey, The Graduate Market in 2012, discovered that half of all firms said it was unlikely they would employ graduates without any work experience.
In an attempt to adhere to these requirements, an increasing number of students are heading to China, eager to gain relevant work experience.
Angelika Lisek, a 23-year old finance graduate of the University of Glasgow in the UK, completed a two-month placement with an investment bank in Shanghai this summer, and says that potential employers in the UK are more impressed with those that can step out of their comfort zone.
“China is the new centre of the world and having work experience from this fast-growing place makes my CV stand out which should be appealing to employers,” she says.
Internships provide a valuable bridge between academic life and the real professional work environment, enabling students to both apply their theoretical knowledge and at the same time discover which professional sector matches their skills and abilities.
According to the US National Association of Colleges and Employers, in 2012 graduates with an internship on their CV had a 42 percent chance of receiving a job offer compared to 30 percent for those who did not. Average starting salaries for students who took part in internships were also 20 percent higher than for those with no internship experience.
Another student, George Buhai, who also spent a summer in Shanghai on work experience, said it helped secure him a job not long after he returned. His employers were impressed with his ability to navigate the Chinese market place and employed him to a position very similar to the one he held in overseas.
"My work experience in China has definitely impressed my current employer and it has helped my company with several business deals with Chinese businesses” he says.
“I think China was a huge eye-opening experience. The business culture is so different to Europe. It’s important to understand the concept of guanxi when dealing with Chinese business people and I’m glad I have that experience from China”, Buhai continues.
Fredrik van Huynh, Co-Founder and Director of Absolute Internship – the company that facilitated Angelika’s and George’s placements in China - has seen applications for his China internship programme almost triple over the last 12 months.
"Last year we received 700 applications for our China programme," he says. “This year we have received around 2,000 applications and are sending out to China more than 125 students and graduates. Demand for our China internships is increasing and we are happy that our programmes have captured the interest of graduates around the world.”
According to alumni figures released by Absolute Internship, students’ work experience in China is what captures employers’ interests most during job interviews, even above their degree. Today’s employers recognise the benefit of overseas work experience and knowledge of a country which is now the second largest global economy and whose trade with Britain alone grew by 17 percent last year.
Europe has some of the best universities in the world. However, it is clear that from an employer’s standpoint, academic qualifications are just one of several characteristics they consider when recruiting new staff.
As recent graduates seek to set themselves apart in a tough job market with internships overseas, returning to their home countries full of confidence and work experience may just be what is needed to restore Europe’s weak economy to long-term health and prosperity.
Source: Matthew Staff, Businessrevieweurope.eu, Tuesday 28th August 2012
Tuesday 28 August 2012
Industry insight opportunity for construction students and graduates
An opportunity to gain some exposure to working construction sites has been presented by a new project. Open Doors, a collaborative initiative to allow the public to visit working construction sites, may offer construction students and graduates a chance to boost their employability.
The project, which is to be held over the weekend of 9 – 10 November 2012, is the product of a combined effort by The UK Contractors Group (UKCG), the Industry Training Board and Sector Skills Council, CITBConstructionSkills, The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) and the Considerate Constructors Scheme.
As the first initiative of its kind in the sector, the stated aim of Open Doors is ‘to raise the profile of the industry, challenge stereotypes and encourage greater engagement with the public and local communities to attract talent into the industry.’
What can construction students and graduates gain from Open Doors?
For construction students and graduates, Open Doors may be a good way to:
- Become more familiar with sites
- Demonstrate keenness and interest in the industry – it could be good fodder for applications and interviews
- Pick up useful facts about particular sites or projects – it may be useful if applying to the company and also just for general industry awareness
- Find networking opportunities with site managers, for example, who may be able to tell them of any jobs or help them to get work experience.
Companies involved include graduate employers BAM Construct and Skanska, at sites in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Leeds, Manchester, Birmingham and Cardiff, among others.
The participating sites will be open to the public on Friday 9 November 9am – 4pm and Saturday 10 November 9am – 1pm. Some of the sites may require to be pre booked; more information can be found on the Open Doors website.
Source: Targetjobs.co.uk, Monday 27th August 2012
Monday 27 August 2012
A-level results 2012 and clearing: Employers tell students 'a degree may not be the right path for everyone'
A degree is not the only route to a successful career, and taking a year off will not always harm a youngster's job prospects, employers said today.
Graduate recruiters are increasingly looking at different ways to select and train school leavers, and also consider vocational courses worthwhile, according to Carl Gilleard, chief executive of the Association of Graduate Recruiters (AGR).
As A-level results were due to be published, Mr Gilleard offered advice to those who may find that their results are not all that they hoped for.
"Following reports that a number of universities - both within and beyond the Russell Group - have declared themselves full this year, many students will be feeling concerned about the options available to them through clearing should they fall short of their expected grades.
"My advice for those school leavers considering clearing is to take a step back and consider their options fully - going to university to study for a degree may not be the right path for everyone, and students who are pressured into making a snap decision today may come to regret it.
"With the further rise in tuition fees this year, students need to be sure that university is the right investment for them."
Clearing is the process that matches students who have not received offers, or who have been turned down by their original choices because they failed to meet the required grades, with available courses.
Mr Gilleard said that AGR members believe that a degree is a "significant asset" and has an impact on a graduate's earning potential.
But he added: "It is not the sole route to a successful career; high level qualifications and vocational courses are also worthwhile, and recruiters are increasingly looking at ways to select and train school leavers.
"Students who miss out a place at their chosen university this year but do want to study for a degree may choose to re-take some A-levels to boost their grades in preparation for re-applying next year.
"Those who take a year out ought also to seize the opportunity to gain experience of the workplace in order to add to their next university application, and to help them to begin preparing for career decisions after university.
"Taking a year out before going on to university will not weaken future job applications, providing that you are able to demonstrate what you have gained during the year," he added.
A survey published separately by the Adecco Group today suggests that nearly two thirds (65%) of the UK's workforce believe that the A-level system is failing to prepare young people for the working world.
Around one in 10 of 1,114 employees questioned (11%) said that the exams are a valuable foundation for working life.
For those that do choose to go into clearing, Ucas is running a hotline for would-be students who have questions about their university application, clearing or adjustment, which allows those with better than expected grades to "trade-up" to a different university.
The number is 0871 468 0468.
But one survey claims that there is still widespread confusion about how the process works.
Almost half of 1,000 A-level students say they are not confident about the clearing process or how to gain a place at a university through the process, according to a poll by London South Bank University and The Student Room.
Professor Patrick McGhee, chair of the university think-tank million+ and vice-chancellor of the University of East London said there will be university places available for those who are "prepared to be flexible and explore opportunities".
"All UK universities offer high quality courses with excellent teaching and state-of-the-art facilities and they are highly respected throughout the world for the quality of their degree programmes," he said.
"At a time of high unemployment, this is the best time to study for a degree because graduates will be much better placed to take advantage of an upturn in the jobs market. Modern universities in particular ensure that students gain employment skills as part of their courses.
"Whatever reservations that students may have about the new funding system in England, no student will have to pay fees upfront. This also applies to students who want to study part-time. Full-time students are eligible for maintenance loans and grants, and universities offer additional bursaries and other support."
Source: Standard.co.uk, Thursday 16th August 2012
Graduate recruiters are increasingly looking at different ways to select and train school leavers, and also consider vocational courses worthwhile, according to Carl Gilleard, chief executive of the Association of Graduate Recruiters (AGR).
As A-level results were due to be published, Mr Gilleard offered advice to those who may find that their results are not all that they hoped for.
"Following reports that a number of universities - both within and beyond the Russell Group - have declared themselves full this year, many students will be feeling concerned about the options available to them through clearing should they fall short of their expected grades.
"My advice for those school leavers considering clearing is to take a step back and consider their options fully - going to university to study for a degree may not be the right path for everyone, and students who are pressured into making a snap decision today may come to regret it.
"With the further rise in tuition fees this year, students need to be sure that university is the right investment for them."
Clearing is the process that matches students who have not received offers, or who have been turned down by their original choices because they failed to meet the required grades, with available courses.
Mr Gilleard said that AGR members believe that a degree is a "significant asset" and has an impact on a graduate's earning potential.
But he added: "It is not the sole route to a successful career; high level qualifications and vocational courses are also worthwhile, and recruiters are increasingly looking at ways to select and train school leavers.
"Students who miss out a place at their chosen university this year but do want to study for a degree may choose to re-take some A-levels to boost their grades in preparation for re-applying next year.
"Those who take a year out ought also to seize the opportunity to gain experience of the workplace in order to add to their next university application, and to help them to begin preparing for career decisions after university.
"Taking a year out before going on to university will not weaken future job applications, providing that you are able to demonstrate what you have gained during the year," he added.
A survey published separately by the Adecco Group today suggests that nearly two thirds (65%) of the UK's workforce believe that the A-level system is failing to prepare young people for the working world.
Around one in 10 of 1,114 employees questioned (11%) said that the exams are a valuable foundation for working life.
For those that do choose to go into clearing, Ucas is running a hotline for would-be students who have questions about their university application, clearing or adjustment, which allows those with better than expected grades to "trade-up" to a different university.
The number is 0871 468 0468.
But one survey claims that there is still widespread confusion about how the process works.
Almost half of 1,000 A-level students say they are not confident about the clearing process or how to gain a place at a university through the process, according to a poll by London South Bank University and The Student Room.
Professor Patrick McGhee, chair of the university think-tank million+ and vice-chancellor of the University of East London said there will be university places available for those who are "prepared to be flexible and explore opportunities".
"All UK universities offer high quality courses with excellent teaching and state-of-the-art facilities and they are highly respected throughout the world for the quality of their degree programmes," he said.
"At a time of high unemployment, this is the best time to study for a degree because graduates will be much better placed to take advantage of an upturn in the jobs market. Modern universities in particular ensure that students gain employment skills as part of their courses.
"Whatever reservations that students may have about the new funding system in England, no student will have to pay fees upfront. This also applies to students who want to study part-time. Full-time students are eligible for maintenance loans and grants, and universities offer additional bursaries and other support."
Source: Standard.co.uk, Thursday 16th August 2012
Sunday 26 August 2012
How can I move from a good graduate job into politics?
On Friday and Monday we publish the problems that will feature in a forthcoming Dear Jeremy advice column in the Guardian Money supplement so that readers can offer their own advice and suggestions. We then print the best of your comments alongside Jeremy's own insights. Here is the latest dilemma – what are your thoughts?
I have always been interested in politics and the third sector, but as I graduated with a middling English degree during the recession, I decided to take the safest course and apply to graduate schemes. I am currently working for a big organisation on a very good salary. I have a large peer group, job security and a lot of training and development. Some rotations are more interesting than others, but it's not an environment in which I ultimately want to work, and I am not happy working here.
How can I make the move to a job in the political sphere that I would enjoy more, and when would the timing be right for me to do so? I have been in my current job for just over a year and the graduate programme is two years long. Would leaving early have any negative repercussions on my CV later on?
I hoped the business experience I am gaining now would stand me in good stead, but the long hours mean I have no time for any extracurricular volunteering, so I am missing out on that side of things. I'm worried I am not qualified in the right ways for a job in politics. Would going back to university to do a masters in politics help, or just be an additional expense?
Source: Guardian.co.uk, Monday 20th August 2012
Saturday 25 August 2012
Housing associations take a chance on graduate schemes
Public services often struggle to attract the best talent. The stereotype of a bureaucratic and bloated sector, crippled by spending cuts and haunted by the threat of redundancy, can set jobseekers clamouring for lucrative private sector roles. But in a crowded job market with fewer graduate roles, is there now an opportunity to attract the brightest talent straight out of university?
An average of 73 graduates apply for every vacancy according to the Association of Graduate Recruiters (AGR), and despite modest increases over the last three years, the number of graduate roles is still down 11% on pre-recession rates. Meanwhile, the number of graduates entering the job market has risen rapidly, with 50,000 extra graduates leaving university in 2012 compared to 2007.
"We certainly like to think that we're in a buyers' market, not just on the graduate side but across the board," says Max Barnard, recruitment manager at Look Ahead Housing and Care. "We had about 220 applications to our graduate scheme this year and we've taken 10 graduates on. We did see a lot of really, really good people, and even if you'd taken out those 10, we'd still have been able to find 10 people who were, if not as good, very close to the standard we'd expect."
Barnard says Look Ahead's graduate scheme offers an opportunity to attract the "educationally elite" with an ethical side. "A lot of graduates, regardless of whether they've been to Oxford, Cambridge or the London School of Economics, do want to be involved in housing associations and social care."
While housing associations dominate the Sunday Times top 100 not-for-profit companies to work for list, taking up almost half of the rankings, the sector is entirely absent in the top 100 graduate employers list.
Public spending cuts played their part in reducing the amount ofgraduate schemes, but the number of housing associations accepting applications has always been low and dropped to just six in 2009.
This could be changing. The Centre for Partnership's graduate employment mentoring programme (Gem) matches graduates with one-year paid internships at housing associations, and has received enough interest to expand nationally and connect graduates to major providers such as Gentoo, Incommunities and Orbit. Does this mean housing associations are beginning to realise the value of the graduate market?
"I hope so," says Amanda Livermore, Gem programme manager. "Housing organisations are very conscious that it's not just about houses, it's about investing in communities. We're an ageing workforce, so we need to look at future leaders too. I wonder if it's just hit home with a number of housing organisations."
Terence Perrin, chairman of the AGR, says: "It is certainly the case that running a graduate programme is, while requiring an appropriate level of investment, an excellent way to attract young talent into your company.
"Students view graduate schemes as a good introduction to working life, since they typically offer experience of different areas of the business, access to senior mentors, and the chance to take early steps in developing managerial skills. If an organisation can demonstrate that it fulfils these needs, it will be attractive to high-quality graduates."
Sanctuary started its graduate scheme in 2009 and this year received 350 applications from graduates chasing just three spaces – the group eventually hired four.
"It's taken us slightly by surprise really," says Ian McDermott, the group's chief operating officer. "There is an awful lot of talent out there. We've been gratified with how interested people are in our organisation."
Sanctuary's graduate development programme website is minimalist and colourful, with a modern typeface and cascading calls-to-action at the top of each page. At first glance it could be the website of a media or design agency. The difference between the graduate site and the group's main website couldn't be more stark.
"The website is a lot funkier than anything that we provide on our corporate website," McDermott says. "We wanted to engage with people in a manner which might be more familiar or attractive to them. We want the best people and we see ourselves competing with the very best blue-chip organisations for the very best talent."
Hanover recently set up its own graduate scheme and the graduate website features a similar design. "That was very deliberately done," explains head of HR Christine Armstrong. "Unless you have a personal interest in housing and accommodation for older people, you may not necessarily know about us or what we can offer. We do attract people from the private sector, but it tends to be in the third or fourth stage of careers. We want to get people into the organisation at an earlier level."
Donna Clews graduated from Oxford University in 2010 with first-class honours in history before being accepted on to Sanctuary's graduate scheme. She is now a business development manager within the group. "I knew I wanted something that had an effect on communities and I was quite attracted to the idea of a graduate scheme," she says. "I was trying to find the best of both worlds. A company with the right ethos and that also had the right professional development opportunities."
Clews witnessed a growing demand among graduates to work within the not-for-profit sector, but a lack of chances to break in, especially those that offer the structured development opportunities that graduate schemes often do. "A lot of the opportunities out there centred around volunteering and internship placements. There's definitely not as easy a route in as you would find in the private sector."
But some housing associations remain unconvinced by the benefits of a graduate scheme, cherry-picking well educated individuals for closer career development and top roles. Despite the buoyant market for candidates, London & Quadrant (L&Q) has chosen to put its graduate scheme on hold. The London landlord will instead offer an apprenticeship scheme available to all applicants and a trainee management scheme with a minimum requirement of A-level qualifications. L&Q says the decision will not affect the group's skillset and the new schemes will widen the employment opportunities it can provide to residents and communities.
"There's always pressure to keep budgets tight," says Sanctuary's McDermott. "But attracting very good people, in their early years particularly, is a relatively inexpensive resource. We see it very much as helping the organisation be leaner and fitter for purpose.
"It would be short-sighted to stop our graduate program. It's very easy to undervalue what young people have to offer to an organisation and the importance of an organisation in staying young and vibrant."
Source: Liam Kelly, Guardian.co.uk, Friday 24th August 2012
Friday 24 August 2012
Graduates won't abandon principles despite tough jobs market
This year's graduates are shunning decent salaries, bonus potential and employee benefits in favour of more altruistic aims, according to research.
Graduates are placing less importance on overall earnings and benefits than in 2011, with fewer than one in 10 (8%) saying a basic salary is in their top three considerations when applying for a job. This contrasts with almost half (45%) in 2011, according to research from management consulting firm Hay Group, exclusive to the Guardian.
Instead, graduates are increasingly interested in their ability to make a difference, with 51% naming this as a key factor in their job choice compared to just 4% in 2011.
"There is a perception that all graduate jobs are difficult to get, so you may as well strive for one that will make you feel happy and satisfied, rather than one that makes you feel bad, like working for an 'evil corporate'," said Tanya de Grunwald, author of How to Get a Graduate Job in a Recession. "Graduates are not prepared to abandon their principles just because the economy is in a terrible state."
Martin Allison applied to the Marks & Spencer IT graduate scheme while studying a business studies degree at Glasgow Caledonian University. "You're given exposure to all aspects of the business as well as the chance to be involved in meaningful projects," he said. "Obviously not everything changes the world, but often you'll get a real sense of pride knowing that something you've done has a bearing."
But the research, a snapshot of sentiment based on interviews with 600 graduates who have applied for a scheme, indicates that finding work is more difficult than it was last year.
Just 29% of respondents said they had won a place on a graduate scheme, meaning that for every three or four graduate scheme applications only one is successful.
Christopher Smith of Hay Group said: "There is clearly a gap between graduates' perceptions of the job market and the reality. Although the latest labour market statistics showed unemployment has started to drop and pay has increased slightly, there is still a very gloomy perception of the UK job market.
"Our research suggests this is starting to filter down and is affecting graduates' confidence."
De Grunwald described the mood among recent graduates as "pretty grim". She said: "I am concerned it is forcing them to make bad decisions – in particular, too many are signing up for expensive master's degrees simply to delay joining the workforce for another year, but without really knowing whether the qualification is a wise investment or truly valued by employers in their chosen field."
A July 2012 study by High Fliers Research showed that applications to graduate employers are 25% higher than three years ago, as advertised positions attract graduates from previous years as well as the latest cohort. The study showed there is an average of 73 students for each job, rising to 142 in the investment banking world and 154 in the retail sector.
For Tessa Watts, finding a graduate job is proving a challenge. Since graduating with a law degree from the University of Exeter in 2011 she has applied to a number of graduate training schemes at major law firms without success.
"I do feel like it's only a matter of time before I get on a scheme, but law firms can cherry-pick at the moment: one big international firm recently selected just 15 graduates from 2,500 applications," she said. "I'm really pleased even if I make it to the first round."
Watts recently had four rejections in a single day. "It can be dispiriting and demoralising. You have to be the one person who shines out from 100 applications or more. I'm not sure what I would do if I didn't have a fantastic support network of family and friends. None of my closest friends who studied law have remained in the sector, they have switched careers already."
However de Grunwald said there is work for graduates beyond the traditional milkround employers. "Graduates who take the time to do a bit more sleuthing will find vacancies that their friends will never even know about. Think about it – would you rather go for a job that 1,000 people have applied for, or 10?"
Source: Mark King, Guardian.co.uk, Wednesday 22nd August 2012
Graduates are placing less importance on overall earnings and benefits than in 2011, with fewer than one in 10 (8%) saying a basic salary is in their top three considerations when applying for a job. This contrasts with almost half (45%) in 2011, according to research from management consulting firm Hay Group, exclusive to the Guardian.
Instead, graduates are increasingly interested in their ability to make a difference, with 51% naming this as a key factor in their job choice compared to just 4% in 2011.
"There is a perception that all graduate jobs are difficult to get, so you may as well strive for one that will make you feel happy and satisfied, rather than one that makes you feel bad, like working for an 'evil corporate'," said Tanya de Grunwald, author of How to Get a Graduate Job in a Recession. "Graduates are not prepared to abandon their principles just because the economy is in a terrible state."
Martin Allison applied to the Marks & Spencer IT graduate scheme while studying a business studies degree at Glasgow Caledonian University. "You're given exposure to all aspects of the business as well as the chance to be involved in meaningful projects," he said. "Obviously not everything changes the world, but often you'll get a real sense of pride knowing that something you've done has a bearing."
But the research, a snapshot of sentiment based on interviews with 600 graduates who have applied for a scheme, indicates that finding work is more difficult than it was last year.
Just 29% of respondents said they had won a place on a graduate scheme, meaning that for every three or four graduate scheme applications only one is successful.
Christopher Smith of Hay Group said: "There is clearly a gap between graduates' perceptions of the job market and the reality. Although the latest labour market statistics showed unemployment has started to drop and pay has increased slightly, there is still a very gloomy perception of the UK job market.
"Our research suggests this is starting to filter down and is affecting graduates' confidence."
De Grunwald described the mood among recent graduates as "pretty grim". She said: "I am concerned it is forcing them to make bad decisions – in particular, too many are signing up for expensive master's degrees simply to delay joining the workforce for another year, but without really knowing whether the qualification is a wise investment or truly valued by employers in their chosen field."
A July 2012 study by High Fliers Research showed that applications to graduate employers are 25% higher than three years ago, as advertised positions attract graduates from previous years as well as the latest cohort. The study showed there is an average of 73 students for each job, rising to 142 in the investment banking world and 154 in the retail sector.
For Tessa Watts, finding a graduate job is proving a challenge. Since graduating with a law degree from the University of Exeter in 2011 she has applied to a number of graduate training schemes at major law firms without success.
"I do feel like it's only a matter of time before I get on a scheme, but law firms can cherry-pick at the moment: one big international firm recently selected just 15 graduates from 2,500 applications," she said. "I'm really pleased even if I make it to the first round."
Watts recently had four rejections in a single day. "It can be dispiriting and demoralising. You have to be the one person who shines out from 100 applications or more. I'm not sure what I would do if I didn't have a fantastic support network of family and friends. None of my closest friends who studied law have remained in the sector, they have switched careers already."
However de Grunwald said there is work for graduates beyond the traditional milkround employers. "Graduates who take the time to do a bit more sleuthing will find vacancies that their friends will never even know about. Think about it – would you rather go for a job that 1,000 people have applied for, or 10?"
Source: Mark King, Guardian.co.uk, Wednesday 22nd August 2012
Thursday 23 August 2012
Graduate recruits reckon they have fewer job opportunites than in 2007
Graduates believe they have fewer job opportunities than five years ago, despite most companies continuing to offer graduate schemes, according to research by global management consultancy, Hays Group.
Just under two thirds (64%) of graduates believe significantly fewer schemes are on offer than in 2007 and three out of five (61%) say the majority of their classmates have been unable to secure a graduate job at all.
But 85% of companies say that they have not cut back their graduate schemes in the last five years, and almost all (98%) report that their scheme is important to their organisation's future.
Christopher Smith, industrial brands sector leader at Hay Group said: "There is clearly a gap between graduates' perceptions of the job market and the reality.
"Although the latest labour market statistics showed that unemployment has started to drop and pay has increased slightly*, there is still a very gloomy perception of the UK job market. Our research suggests that this is starting to filter down and is affecting graduates' confidence."
Hay Group's Class of 2012 study is based on the views of 600 graduates and interviews with senior managers at 40 of the UK's largest graduate employers, including Coca-Cola, Marks & Spencer, Jaguar Land Rover, Royal Mail and Caterpillar.
Many graduates underestimate how much they can expect to earn. But average entry-level wages have risen over the last year in most sectors.
In starting a graduate position, two thirds (67%) of graduates expect a salary of £15-20,000 but Hay Group's data shows that in key business functions such as finance, legal, engineering, IT, HR and sales and marketing, graduates can expect to earn between £25-30,000.
Christopher Smith, added: "Perhaps unsurprisingly, confronted by a continuingly uncertain economic outlook, graduates have lowered their pay expectations.
"It is important that individuals are aware of what they can realistically expect to earn with the UK's largest graduate employers or graduates risk selling themselves short and holding back their future earning potential."
Surprisingly, Hay Group's research shows that graduates are placing less importance on their overall earnings and benefits than last year, with less than one in ten (8%) stating that base salary is one of their top three considerations when applying for a job. This is in contrast to almost half (45%) in 2011.
In addition, just a year ago, more than a third (37%) of graduates considered bonus potential to be important, however this year the figure has fallen to just 7%.
Similarly, only 5% are now considering their pensions and healthcare options to be important, compared to half (51%) in 2011.
Instead, graduates now appear to be more interested in the ability to make a difference, with (51%) considering this to be a key factor in their job choice, compared to just 4% last year.
The majority of companies (93%) reported that the best way for graduates to ensure they are ready for the work place is to carry out work experience in a relevant sector. Almost three quarters (73%) also recommended that graduates make sure that they know all about the company before applying for a scheme.
Helen Alkin, recruitment manager at Marks & Spencer, said: "Whilst the temptation might be to apply to 20 or more companies, this will only dilute the quality of their application and demonstrate that they have not really done their homework."
Source: David Woods, Hrmagazine.co.uk, Wednesday 22nd August 2012
Just under two thirds (64%) of graduates believe significantly fewer schemes are on offer than in 2007 and three out of five (61%) say the majority of their classmates have been unable to secure a graduate job at all.
But 85% of companies say that they have not cut back their graduate schemes in the last five years, and almost all (98%) report that their scheme is important to their organisation's future.
Christopher Smith, industrial brands sector leader at Hay Group said: "There is clearly a gap between graduates' perceptions of the job market and the reality.
"Although the latest labour market statistics showed that unemployment has started to drop and pay has increased slightly*, there is still a very gloomy perception of the UK job market. Our research suggests that this is starting to filter down and is affecting graduates' confidence."
Hay Group's Class of 2012 study is based on the views of 600 graduates and interviews with senior managers at 40 of the UK's largest graduate employers, including Coca-Cola, Marks & Spencer, Jaguar Land Rover, Royal Mail and Caterpillar.
Many graduates underestimate how much they can expect to earn. But average entry-level wages have risen over the last year in most sectors.
In starting a graduate position, two thirds (67%) of graduates expect a salary of £15-20,000 but Hay Group's data shows that in key business functions such as finance, legal, engineering, IT, HR and sales and marketing, graduates can expect to earn between £25-30,000.
Christopher Smith, added: "Perhaps unsurprisingly, confronted by a continuingly uncertain economic outlook, graduates have lowered their pay expectations.
"It is important that individuals are aware of what they can realistically expect to earn with the UK's largest graduate employers or graduates risk selling themselves short and holding back their future earning potential."
Surprisingly, Hay Group's research shows that graduates are placing less importance on their overall earnings and benefits than last year, with less than one in ten (8%) stating that base salary is one of their top three considerations when applying for a job. This is in contrast to almost half (45%) in 2011.
In addition, just a year ago, more than a third (37%) of graduates considered bonus potential to be important, however this year the figure has fallen to just 7%.
Similarly, only 5% are now considering their pensions and healthcare options to be important, compared to half (51%) in 2011.
Instead, graduates now appear to be more interested in the ability to make a difference, with (51%) considering this to be a key factor in their job choice, compared to just 4% last year.
The majority of companies (93%) reported that the best way for graduates to ensure they are ready for the work place is to carry out work experience in a relevant sector. Almost three quarters (73%) also recommended that graduates make sure that they know all about the company before applying for a scheme.
Helen Alkin, recruitment manager at Marks & Spencer, said: "Whilst the temptation might be to apply to 20 or more companies, this will only dilute the quality of their application and demonstrate that they have not really done their homework."
Source: David Woods, Hrmagazine.co.uk, Wednesday 22nd August 2012
Wednesday 22 August 2012
Graduate recruitment starting to look a bit healthier
Slight increase in graduate hiring as social media makes recruitment of quality graduates less time consuming.
During the last couple of years the recession has reduced the amount of graduate jobs available, this along with the banking scandal and the Eurozone troubles has had an obvious negative affect on graduate job prospects, yet there is a glimmer of hope for recent graduates as UK employers look to increase their graduate recruitment by 6.4% this year. Also according to the Association for Graduate Recruiters (AGR) starting salaries for graduates is set to rise by 6% to £26,500.
Still competition for graduate jobs is high as graduate recruiters receive high volumes of applicants per graduate job of around 100. Social media has been hailed by recruiters as a way to save time and reduce costs whilst finding those elusive and difficult to find graduates and new figures show graduates are actively participating, with 45% of graduates having an active profile on the social networking site Linkedin and others admitting to following a company on Facebook in order to receive hints and tips.
Ted Elliot of Jobscience expects this trend to continue with a “trend towards personal branding” where graduates use their social networks to highlight their skills and abilities, a feature already available via linked in with its recommend function. He also states that recruiters will “no longer solely rely on references from candidates – they’ll have immediate access to a multitude of ratings for candidates.” He also goes further to say that brands must build up own brand through these social networks, developing the image of a “hot company” to work for, and that this will become very important if they are to attract the best young talent.
Source: Pareto.co.uk, Wednesday 22nd August 2012
During the last couple of years the recession has reduced the amount of graduate jobs available, this along with the banking scandal and the Eurozone troubles has had an obvious negative affect on graduate job prospects, yet there is a glimmer of hope for recent graduates as UK employers look to increase their graduate recruitment by 6.4% this year. Also according to the Association for Graduate Recruiters (AGR) starting salaries for graduates is set to rise by 6% to £26,500.
Still competition for graduate jobs is high as graduate recruiters receive high volumes of applicants per graduate job of around 100. Social media has been hailed by recruiters as a way to save time and reduce costs whilst finding those elusive and difficult to find graduates and new figures show graduates are actively participating, with 45% of graduates having an active profile on the social networking site Linkedin and others admitting to following a company on Facebook in order to receive hints and tips.
Ted Elliot of Jobscience expects this trend to continue with a “trend towards personal branding” where graduates use their social networks to highlight their skills and abilities, a feature already available via linked in with its recommend function. He also states that recruiters will “no longer solely rely on references from candidates – they’ll have immediate access to a multitude of ratings for candidates.” He also goes further to say that brands must build up own brand through these social networks, developing the image of a “hot company” to work for, and that this will become very important if they are to attract the best young talent.
Source: Pareto.co.uk, Wednesday 22nd August 2012
Tuesday 21 August 2012
Recruitment industry focus: what advice would you give to struggling unemployed graduates in today's competitive job market?
As part of its annual recruitment review, The Drum asks a cross-section of the recruitment industry for their advice for unemployed graduates.
Recruitment industry focus: what advice would you give to struggling
With one in five every new graduates unemployed during the last quarter of 2011, competition is tough in today's job market. The Drum spoke to a number of recruitment experts to find out what advice they'd give graduates struggling to find their dream job – or any job at all.
Farooq Mohammed, co-founder, Digital Gurus
The competition out there is very strong at the moment, but the best grads still find work. The difference is the best grads have gone out of their way to make themselves stand out, obviously a strong degree helps, but having the tenacity and focus to target the dream role also helps. Networking is also vital, making human relationships is still the most important way of making an impact.
The competition out there is very strong at the moment, but the best grads still find work. The difference is the best grads have gone out of their way to make themselves stand out, obviously a strong degree helps, but having the tenacity and focus to target the dream role also helps. Networking is also vital, making human relationships is still the most important way of making an impact.
Justin Moore, recruitment manager, Become
This has always been a tricky candidate pool for specialist recruitment agencies to help. I really feel for struggling unemployed graduates who ring/email me asking for help. Due to the fact that we charge fees for our services, our clients are less likely to approach us to help with graduate recruitment – instead they tend to source trainees from universities, colleges and online searches themselves.
This has always been a tricky candidate pool for specialist recruitment agencies to help. I really feel for struggling unemployed graduates who ring/email me asking for help. Due to the fact that we charge fees for our services, our clients are less likely to approach us to help with graduate recruitment – instead they tend to source trainees from universities, colleges and online searches themselves.
Here at Become, we have recently recruited a new trainee through a government-funded scheme called The Apprentice Academy. The government has been very hot on encouraging more young people into the workplace and finding schemes and organisations to help achieve this. We embarked on an apprentice scheme to help us employ our recent recruit, Iona Bryant. We used The Apprentice Academy in Manchester who sourced a number of Apprentices for us; we interviewed and selected Iona from an impressive group of candidates. The bonus for the apprentice is that we provide them with a two year programme as part of their ongoing NVQ Levels 1 and 2 qualifications – so, not only are they gaining commercially viable work experience, but they’re also working towards a qualification too. I would definitely recommend that graduates go out and try to find schemes like this to join. It gives you excellent work experience to include on your CV and also gets your foot on the employment ladder.
Ann Downs, managing director, Green Shoots Recruitment
Make sure there are no spelling errors in your CV. Try to get some work experience in your relevant field; offer to work for free if necessary, make sure you add this to your CV. If you are a creative graduate and are sending work samples, send some commercial pieces and make the pdf an email-able size. Creative graduates should put more thought into the design layout of their CVs as companies look for this, but don’t go mad and make it good size for emailing. Please only apply for jobs that are relevant to your experience, no one is going to put a graduate with little or no experience into a director role.
Make sure there are no spelling errors in your CV. Try to get some work experience in your relevant field; offer to work for free if necessary, make sure you add this to your CV. If you are a creative graduate and are sending work samples, send some commercial pieces and make the pdf an email-able size. Creative graduates should put more thought into the design layout of their CVs as companies look for this, but don’t go mad and make it good size for emailing. Please only apply for jobs that are relevant to your experience, no one is going to put a graduate with little or no experience into a director role.
Anna Smith, director, Beyond the Book
We would advise graduates to follow some simple rules to give themselves every possible chance of standing out. It’s about being focused, patient and relevant. Oh, and being prepared to relocate for a job. All too often gradates will pass up an opportunity because it isn’t close to home.
We would advise graduates to follow some simple rules to give themselves every possible chance of standing out. It’s about being focused, patient and relevant. Oh, and being prepared to relocate for a job. All too often gradates will pass up an opportunity because it isn’t close to home.
- Know yourself very well. What is your core value/specialism/talent?
- Be prepared to communicate what you are, clearly and articulately, to every person, recruitment agency, follower, etc., and equally write a CV that has the same clarity and focus
- Research employers who employ people like ‘you’ and talk to recruiters about employers who employ people like ‘you’
- Approach prospective employers and recruiters in a timely manner with a message that articulately and succinctly explains your relevance. Email is best
- Stay calm. You may not get a response, so don’t expect one. Follow any communication up on a regular basis but with a friendly, quick reminder. Staying front of mind when you believe you can add value is key so that, when an opportunity does come up, you will be remembered!
- You need to stand out, and the best way to do that is to show that you have considered your approach thoughtfully and taken the time to communicate who you are, what you are, and your passion, in a short covering letter and a relevant and professional CV
Jo Joseph, associate commercial director – creative, Major Players
Ultimately graduates need to know that getting a job is a full time job which requires dedication, commitment and determination! Think of yourself as a brand, really consider your positioning, your key strengths and what you can offer your next employer. Certainly in the creative space, your folio is key. This is your selling tool and it has to really reflect you and your best work and show what you’re capable off. At this level, graduates shouldn’t be afraid of going direct to the top, and getting themselves seen and heard by people in the business.
Ultimately graduates need to know that getting a job is a full time job which requires dedication, commitment and determination! Think of yourself as a brand, really consider your positioning, your key strengths and what you can offer your next employer. Certainly in the creative space, your folio is key. This is your selling tool and it has to really reflect you and your best work and show what you’re capable off. At this level, graduates shouldn’t be afraid of going direct to the top, and getting themselves seen and heard by people in the business.
Mike Carter, managing director, Orchard
Advice for graduates is always the same really, whatever the climate. Build your experience, paid or unpaid; a graduate with real work experience is more desirable then one without, as well as the obvious possibility of making yourself indispensable whilst working for free. Always remember that you will learn an enormous amount in your first role, so the value of the salary pales in comparison to the value to you of the experience in terms of learning and future employability.
Advice for graduates is always the same really, whatever the climate. Build your experience, paid or unpaid; a graduate with real work experience is more desirable then one without, as well as the obvious possibility of making yourself indispensable whilst working for free. Always remember that you will learn an enormous amount in your first role, so the value of the salary pales in comparison to the value to you of the experience in terms of learning and future employability.
Monday 20 August 2012
150 UK graduate jobs at Balfour Beatty
Heavyweight construction employer Balfour Beatty isn't cutting back on UK graduate recruitment, despite saying in its half-year financial results that it will focus on pursuing work opportunities abroad. Balfour Beatty is planning to recruit 150 UK graduates for 2013 – the same number as last year.
Balfour Beatty's half-year financial results
The company's global results largely defy the gloom plaguing the construction sector by reporting a rise in pre-tax profits, which are up by 3% to £93m, and revenue, which is up by 6% to £5.5bn.
Margins were up in professional services, with the company pointing to its higher growth in regions in the Middle East, Africa and Asia. However, it is still under pressure in construction services, as a result of its UK order book and revenue; having now completed the bulk of its Olympic workload, the company has seen a noticeable dip in its UK orders and profits, which have dropped by 2% and 3% respectively.
The construction firm, which was heavily involved in public landmark projects such as the Olympic Aquatic Centre, the A3 Hindhead dual carriageway and M25 motorway improvements, is now seeking to boost its order book by focusing on smaller, private projects.
Balfour Beatty has said that it is planning its strategy on the assumption that there will be no sustainable economic recovery in Britain in the immediate future. The company are therefore seeking to capitalise on foreign markets where there are opportunities for growth despite a ‘tough world’.
Chief executive, Ian Tyler, commented: ‘The increase in our interim dividend, consistent with our progressive policy, reflects our confidence that we are well placed to take full advantage of the global growth in infrastructure markets.’
What this business strategy means for graduates applying to Balfour Beatty
On the surface, Balfour Beatty's strategy does not seem promising for UK graduates; the company appears to be prioritising work abroad. However, according to its latest recruitment literature, the company is still hiring 150 UK graduates for 2013. This may mean that recruits will be sent to work on projects abroad, but it’s more likely that they will be found project work in the UK initially.
One ongoing UK project in which the company is involved is helping to build the legacy of the London Olympics. As well as the Aquatic Centre, Balfour Beatty built the bridges spanning the river in the Olympic Park; it will continue to manage and operate both of these landmarks.
Source: Targetjobs.co.uk, Monday 20th August 2012
Sunday 19 August 2012
Employers: Degree not essential for successful career
A degree is not the only route to a successful career, and taking a year off will not always harm a youngster's job prospects, employers have said.
Graduate recruiters are increasingly looking at different ways to select and train school leavers, and also consider vocational courses worthwhile, according to Carl Gilleard, chief executive of the Association of Graduate Recruiters (AGR).
As A-level results were due to be published, Mr Gilleard offered advice to those who may find that their results are not all that they hoped for.
He said: "My advice for those school leavers considering clearing is to take a step back and consider their options fully - going to university to study for a degree may not be the right path for everyone, and students who are pressured into making a snap decision today may come to regret it."
Clearing is the process that matches students who have not received offers, or who have been turned down by their original choices because they failed to meet the required grades, with available courses.
Mr Gilleard said that AGR members believe that a degree is a "significant asset" and has an impact on a graduate's earning potential.
But he added: "It is not the sole route to a successful career; high level qualifications and vocational courses are also worthwhile, and recruiters are increasingly looking at ways to select and train school leavers.
"Students who miss out a place at their chosen university this year but do want to study for a degree may choose to re-take some A-levels to boost their grades in preparation for re-applying next year.
"Those who take a year out ought also to seize the opportunity to gain experience of the workplace in order to add to their next university application, and to help them to begin preparing for career decisions after university."
For those that do choose to go into clearing, Ucas is running a hotline for would-be students who have questions about their university application, clearing or adjustment, which allows those with better than expected grades to "trade-up" to a different university. The number is 0871 468 0468.
Source: Money.aol.co.uk, Thursday 16th August 2012
Graduate recruiters are increasingly looking at different ways to select and train school leavers, and also consider vocational courses worthwhile, according to Carl Gilleard, chief executive of the Association of Graduate Recruiters (AGR).
As A-level results were due to be published, Mr Gilleard offered advice to those who may find that their results are not all that they hoped for.
He said: "My advice for those school leavers considering clearing is to take a step back and consider their options fully - going to university to study for a degree may not be the right path for everyone, and students who are pressured into making a snap decision today may come to regret it."
Clearing is the process that matches students who have not received offers, or who have been turned down by their original choices because they failed to meet the required grades, with available courses.
Mr Gilleard said that AGR members believe that a degree is a "significant asset" and has an impact on a graduate's earning potential.
But he added: "It is not the sole route to a successful career; high level qualifications and vocational courses are also worthwhile, and recruiters are increasingly looking at ways to select and train school leavers.
"Students who miss out a place at their chosen university this year but do want to study for a degree may choose to re-take some A-levels to boost their grades in preparation for re-applying next year.
"Those who take a year out ought also to seize the opportunity to gain experience of the workplace in order to add to their next university application, and to help them to begin preparing for career decisions after university."
For those that do choose to go into clearing, Ucas is running a hotline for would-be students who have questions about their university application, clearing or adjustment, which allows those with better than expected grades to "trade-up" to a different university. The number is 0871 468 0468.
Source: Money.aol.co.uk, Thursday 16th August 2012
Saturday 18 August 2012
Sunderland University graduate lands job with Abercrombie & Fitch
A fashion student from Tyneside has landed a job with one of the world’s top fashion labels after her graduation project won over talent spotters in the United States.
Sophia Ramsey, who is from Gateshead, has landed the position at Abercrombie & Fitch after graduating from Sunderland University.
The 22-year-old will head to the company’s headquarters in Ohio, USA, early next year to design womenswear for the trendy label.
She landed the job after she and fellow students on Sunderland’s fashion, product and promotion course raised enough funding to set up a small stall at Graduate Fashion Week in London for the first time in June.
A recruitment agent from Abercrombie & Fitch spotted Sophia’s collection of menswear designs, which were created as part of her final-year project, and suggested she apply for a job.
That led to her being flown to the US, where she pitted her design skills against 15 candidates from around the world.
A day after returning to Britain, Sophia was offered one of four jobs available at the firm, which had received hundreds of applications.
“I feel incredibly fortunate to have been offered such a massive opportunity with a company like Abercrombie & Fitch,” the Tyneside woman said, “I just can’t wait to get started.
“Ironically, I’ll be designing for the company’s womenswear collection, yet it was my designs for men’s clothing in my final year project which initially caught the attention of the recruitment agent in London.
“The interview process in Ohio took place over several days and they liked the portfolio of work I was asked to produce for them.”
In the months before she starts her career, Sophia plans to spend as much time as possible with her family and friends, while continuing her children’s face-painting business, designing gifts and cards, as well as researching ideas for her new employers.
She said: “My advice to any student starting their course would be to work as hard as you can and you will get where you want to be in the future.
“Never put off work. I sacrificed a lot of my social life for three years, but to land a job like this was worth every night in and my family are so proud.”
The university is opening up its doors next week to possible future students who could follow in Sophia’s footsteps next Tuesday.
The open day will provide the opportunity for potential students and their families to see the university facilities and talk to students and staff.
Sophia Ramsey, who is from Gateshead, has landed the position at Abercrombie & Fitch after graduating from Sunderland University.
The 22-year-old will head to the company’s headquarters in Ohio, USA, early next year to design womenswear for the trendy label.
She landed the job after she and fellow students on Sunderland’s fashion, product and promotion course raised enough funding to set up a small stall at Graduate Fashion Week in London for the first time in June.
A recruitment agent from Abercrombie & Fitch spotted Sophia’s collection of menswear designs, which were created as part of her final-year project, and suggested she apply for a job.
That led to her being flown to the US, where she pitted her design skills against 15 candidates from around the world.
A day after returning to Britain, Sophia was offered one of four jobs available at the firm, which had received hundreds of applications.
“I feel incredibly fortunate to have been offered such a massive opportunity with a company like Abercrombie & Fitch,” the Tyneside woman said, “I just can’t wait to get started.
“Ironically, I’ll be designing for the company’s womenswear collection, yet it was my designs for men’s clothing in my final year project which initially caught the attention of the recruitment agent in London.
“The interview process in Ohio took place over several days and they liked the portfolio of work I was asked to produce for them.”
In the months before she starts her career, Sophia plans to spend as much time as possible with her family and friends, while continuing her children’s face-painting business, designing gifts and cards, as well as researching ideas for her new employers.
She said: “My advice to any student starting their course would be to work as hard as you can and you will get where you want to be in the future.
“Never put off work. I sacrificed a lot of my social life for three years, but to land a job like this was worth every night in and my family are so proud.”
The university is opening up its doors next week to possible future students who could follow in Sophia’s footsteps next Tuesday.
The open day will provide the opportunity for potential students and their families to see the university facilities and talk to students and staff.
Source: Graeme Whitfield, Journallive.co.uk, Wednesday 15th August 2012
Friday 17 August 2012
A degree of job satisfaction
Experts spend a lot of time pontificating on the news about the gloomy graduate job market, but for this year's uni-leavers, the outlook is brighter than it might seem. Graduates are benefiting from a jump in average starting salaries of more than 4% to £26,500 this year, according to an influential report by the Association of Graduate Recruiters (AGR). That's the first average pay rise since 2009.
Meanwhile competition, though still high at 73 applications per vacancy, is well below its all-time record of 83 last year.
And that's just the bigger recruiters. The phrase "graduate jobs" is now a bit of a misnomer. They're not just the traditional milk-round roles offered by multinational corporations, but working everywhere from farms and laboratories to restaurants and as entrepreneurs.
But the recession has made things harder – and students and graduates are having to change the way they tackle uni and CV experience as a result. "The 'degree equals job' mindset is no longer true," says Gill Betmead, careers adviser at Anglia Ruskin university. "More employers are also looking for soft skills such as communication skills and teamwork, so university careers advisers offer guidance to students such as applying for work experience, volunteering or part-time work, help with graduate job searches, post-graduate study, applications and interview practice. Work experience or volunteering is essential in today's market."
Plan ahead
With the number of graduates working in low-skilled jobs like cleaning or bar work almost doubling to 10,000 in the past five years, according to the government's Higher Education Statistics Agency, it's crucial that students don't ignore careers services until the week before graduation. Most uni career services host workshops, speakers, CV-writing clinics and recruitment fairs throughout the year, and will have a database of alumni who may be able to help out with work experience or even flag up vacancies. They will also alert you to summer internships or placements you can embark on in your first or second-year holidays to help bolster your CV, and these can also lead to job offers.
"Make sure you reflect on what you have learned – both at university and in an extra-curricular capacity – and be able to articulate it in your applications and at interviews," says Carl Gilleard, chief executive of the AGR. "Think about what transferable skills you might have gained and how you would apply your knowledge and experience to different situations. "
It sounds mercenary, but students need to think of themselves as a brand, says Kristian Rumble, graduate employment manager at the University of Hull. "One of the most important things is getting your individual brand right so that you can compete against other graduates," he says. "Employers' feedback about applicants says that the graduates that stand out are the ones that have targeted their applications to the company concerned and have an awareness of the industry sector. It is very important to learn how to sell yourself in an interview situation – you have to consider yourself almost as a 'product' and market yourself appropriately."
That doesn't just mean a snazzy CV, but changing out of casuals and into a suit at careers fairs. "Increasing numbers of business-savvy students and graduates are coming to careers events well-dressed," adds Rumble. "That, plus a portfolio of work to give the businesses, gives a really positive impression."
Source: Lucy Tobin, Guardian.co.uk, Thursday 16th August 2012
Thursday 16 August 2012
Mistakes to avoid when you accept a graduate job offer
You’ve gone through the whole graduate job process, from application to interview and all the rest. You’ve fought off the competition and been offered a job. Just saying ‘yes’ should suffice, right? Wrong. Even at this stage, some job-hunters mess things up.
How do you choose between job offers?
Here’s a nice scenario to imagine yourself in: you have two job offers on the table, and you aren’t sure which one you should go for. One area where this is a particular problem is investment banking. Students may feel obliged to take the most prestigious offer due to peer and parental pressure. Having a ‘big’ bank on their CV is seen as important for their career development.
The reality is that it is just as important to be comfortable in your working environment. This is particularly true in careers like investment banking, or law, where you will be working long hours in a career that will have a big impact on your lifestyle. When making the decision try to ignore other peoples’ input and what you ‘should’ do. You are the one who has to do the job, so the decision is yours alone.
That said, what you shouldn’t do is try to play the offers against each other. You are a capable and talented graduate, sure, but one among many. You are not a premiership footballer, and by trying to start a bidding war you are going to annoy everyone. At most, employers will accept that you may have applied to other companies, and may give you time to consider their offer. This brings us to our next point…
Accepting the offer
…You have to make sure that – if you are going to – you accept the offer within the allotted timeframe. If your answer isn’t an immediate ‘HELL YES’ (and it shouldn’t be, a bit of deliberation is a good idea here) you need to find out how long you’ve got to decide. It is certainly worth thinking twice before accepting the first offer that comes along. You may find that an offer from one company will give you the confidence to apply for your ideal job.
What’s more, you should make sure you pick up the phone, and check your emails. Some people don’t answer their mobile if they’re getting calls from an unfamiliar landline. Similarly, if you’ve set up a new ‘sensible’ email address to apply for jobs, make sure you check it fairly regularly. If they can’t reach you, an employer can’t offer you a job. For much the same reasons, if you are going on holiday, make sure you’re easy to reach.
Going public
It is important to remember that, while you may have signed a contract, you have not guaranteed yourself a job for life. At least for the first few months at any company, you will be in a probation phase – whether this is formally recognised or not. The lesson to learn is that, until it’s blatantly obvious that you can relax, you have to tread very carefully.
There was a story in the press this year about an applicant who was offered a job. He accepted and published extracts of the correspondence, with the company’s logo, on his personal blog. Unfortunately, the company saw it, and rescinded their offer. They argued that he had disclosed contents of a private correspondence, and used their logo without their permission. To some this might seem a bit heavy-handed, but this kind of attitude is not uncommon in the business world.
Source: Targetjobs.co.uk, Thursday 16th August 2012
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