The uncertain global economy and job market is, justifiably, of great
concern to students and graduates searching for work. But don’t
stress – there are still steps you can take to maximise your employment
prospects and qualifications! Keep reading as we answer many common
questions being asked by students...
Q: The job market is pretty harsh at the moment. How do I gain an
opportunity during these times?
A: Even though times are tough, there are still plenty of organisations
out there recruiting graduates. The same principles apply during these
times as in boom times. You should ensure that your résumé is up-to-
date, and you should identify both industries and potential employers
that are of interest.
Many of you are in highly discrete job areas. If you are finding that you
can’t get a position in your specific discipline area, apply for positions
within other industries that appeal. Consider approaching industry-
related professional associations as well. This type of employment will
get you some important work experience, which will enhance your
résumé when jobs more suited to your discipline area are available. All
work experience and volunteer work is valuable.
Networking is also significant in job searching. Develop a list of people in
your industry/discipline area you could contact, and reach out to them.
These could even include friends, family and university acquaintances.
It is also important to visit your university careers service, as it will be able
to provide some suggestions for obtaining work experience.
Q: Will any kind of work experience/volunteer roles help towards
getting a ‘foot in the door’ in my preferred area, or do these
opportunities have to be specific to my field of study?
A: Work experience in your specific area is better, but may be much
more difficult to obtain. This may be particularly true if you are
undertaking a broad, generalist degree. General work experience is also
valuable, but you must be able to identify how that work experience
has made you a potentially better employee. For example, you might
end up supervising some staff in your work experience; this is a generic
skill of value to many employers. For any work experience, keep a record
of what you have done and the skills you have obtained. These may be
leadership skills, technology skills, customer service skills etc., all of which
Undergraduate Opportunities 2009
are excellent to demonstrate to a potential employer.
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