After reading an article on the BBC website about a drop in graduate vacancies yesterday, I felt I needed to write a post.
Apparently there is a forecasted 4% drop in graduate vacancies this year, worrying news indeed! With the current state of the economy, it’s not surprising, but what does this really mean if you’re graduating this summer?
Competition is on the up!
The Association of Graduate Recruiter (AGR) annual summer survey shows that the top employers are receiving up to 85 applications for each position! One thing to bare in mind though, this stat is based on the top 200 employers. There are lots of great jobs out there, that aren’t in that top 200!
Think outside the box!
If I were graduating now, I would definitely be looking to SME’s for positions! The great thing about small to medium enterprises is that they won’t be getting the barrage of applications that the big firms get, giving you a better chance.
Another bonus of working for an SME can be that you get the opportunity to do a greater range of daily activities, allowing you to expand your skillset for the future!
Un-advertised vacancies
One thing to be aware of is that a lot of vacancies aren’t advertised! It’s estimated that around 40% of vacancies are either filled by recommendations and networking! Approaching employers on a speculative basis can be scary, but I always think, what’s the harm in trying?
The new wave of social media recruiting
It’s no secret that employers are using social media to vet and engage with potential employees, but don’t wait for them to come to you, contact them. A well worded message or tweet, can show good communication skills and could help you to get on their radar! Just make sure that your ‘online brand’ shows you in a good light, before you start firing off messages!
Are you graduating this summer and worried about the current job market! Have you got any tips for would be job seekers to help them get their first position?
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