What Employers Really Want from New Grads
When it comes to hiring new or recent college graduates, the most sought after candidates, generally possess, experience outside of academics. Candidates that display work experience on their resume through, internships, volunteering, or demonstrate active involvement in extracurricular activities gain a considerable advantage when trying to land that coveted first job. Internships are no longer just for students. Today, it is considered the new entry-level job. Therefore, employers want to know that you have skills that transcend those of the traditional academic classroom. Having additional skills and knowledge that cut across majors are key attributes employers seek; even for students who have yet to work full-time.
Gaining part-time, temporary or volunteer work experience during your college years is crucial to jump starting your career. It gives an employer an indication of how well you would work on a team, and if you can make decisions and solve problems. Another important skill that must be developed is communication. This includes verbal and written communication, and listening skills. Here’s a tip: Make sure your resume is professionally written to highlight this asset. Poorly written resumes with grammatical errors gives employers insight to your ability to communicate with people inside and outside an organization. As a result, a poorly written resume will negatively impact your chances of getting hired.
Today’s employers are looking for attributes that represent the total package of skills, qualities and business awareness needed to win them over. Employers want universal skills that can be utilized across academic disciplines in any job where you are working with others.
Furthermore, most employers also look for leadership or entrepreneurial experience in their potential hires. Launching a side business online, taking on a leadership role, organizing an event or overseeing a project, and active membership within a group or organization, are viewed favorably and increases your value to potential employers. There is a lot of emphasis placed on transferable skills and you will need to demonstrate a high level of competency in these areas if you want to succeed in the job market.
During the interview process, you will be expected to clearly articulate your accomplishments as part of your personal brand. Highlighting areas that show initiative is impressive. The key is to communicate clearly that you have these skills. Employers are looking for a reason to hire you. Use this opportunity to demonstrate self-confidence, maturity, professionalism and the ability to adapt to a professional or business environment. Experience gained through an internship or work placement will provide you the opportunity to acquire and showcase these skills at the application and interview stage.
Make the most of university life and extra-curricular activities to develop your general skills. Plan ahead to get relevant work and volunteer experience which will give you transferable skills that will make you work ready. Whatever sector or career path you decide to follow, whether graduate school or a full-time position, employers will look for evidence of core skills and competencies.