What do employers want?
Employers tell us:
- they want students with a good degree
- who have participated fully in University life
- who have work experience
- who have reflected upon and can articulate their achievements.
Whatever sector or career path you decide to follow, whether a graduate scheme or direct entry position, almost all employers will be looking for evidence of core skills and competencies.
Skills graduate employers are looking for:
|
|
An excellent academic record will not compensate for a weak skill set as employers expect today's graduates to hit the ground running. It is important to be able to recognise the skills you are developing in any given situation, whether that's work experience, volunteering or part-time, casual work.
- Use the skills audit to help you identify your skills and possible gaps.
- TARGETJobs: the top 10 skills that'll get you a job when you graduate
What are graduate attributes?
You see a lot of emphasis placed on transferable skills and certainly you willl need to demonstrate a high level of competency in these core areas if you want to succeed in the job market, but today's graduate employers are looking for something else as well - graduate attributes. Graduate attributes represent the package of skills, qualities and understanding that you will need to impress potential employers. You will be expected to demonstrate:
- self-confidence, maturity and resilience
- a willingness to fit in and co-operate
- business etiquette and professionalism
- intellectual curiosity
- reflective approach to work and experiences
- management of self and career.
Why work experience counts
Employers need to discriminate between applicants with a very similar academic profile and place increasing emphasis on the value of work experience. Without it you may struggle to compete at the application stage.
- Nearly two-thirds of graduate employers warn that graduates with no previous work experience have little or no chance of receiving a job offer on a graduate programme (The Graduate Market in 2011 High Fliers).
- Employers look for evidence of professionalism - the ability to adapt to adapt to a professional or business environment. Completing an internship or work placement will provide you with the opportunity to acquire and demonstrate these skills at the application and interview stage.
