The latest report from the AGR (Association of Graduate Recruiters) predicts that the engineering industry will see a massive 46.5% rise in graduate jobs at blue-chip employers this year. This figure is based on information collected from some of the top engineering recruiters in the UK, which also predicts a slight starting salary increase of 2.1% for graduates entering such positions. However, the report also shows a fall in the number of vacancies in closely related sectors including energy (-4.1%), fast moving consumer goods (-13.7%) and construction (-60.6%). Vacancies with leading employers in the IT sector have increased very slightly (0.8%), but this has coincided with a huge increase in the number of IT applicants, which now stands at 129.5 per job.
Currently, there is an average of 46.3 applicants to one engineering job - but don’t let this put you off. Figures show that engineering recruiters are not as impressed with the standard of applicants as those in some other sectors are. On a scale of one to six (one representing ‘very poor quality’, and six ‘very high quality’), the average standard of engineering applications was just 3.9, compared with public sector and investment banking, which both rated their applicants at 4.8.
It may be that graduates are applying to more roles, but sending off lower quality applications. Take time to think about which companies appeal to you, and only apply to those you genuinely want to work for. A few really good applications will benefit you more than a hundred rushed ones.
Source: Targetjobs.co.uk, Wednesday 29th June 2011
Jobsbody provides a dynamic forum in which businesses can view and connect with graduates.
No comments:
Post a Comment