2017 has seen a substantial increase in the number of graduates across Full-Time, Part-Time and remote courses around Ireland. In fact, the total number for 2016 / 2017 academic year is a whopping 69, 633! So, what does that mean for you and graduate employment?
For the third year in a row, graduates who are fresh out of third level institutions have better prospects for getting a job than ever before. With the exception that some industries are demanding more than others, there are still plenty of vacancies available in all industries. In Ireland, the youth unemployment rate has dropped from 19.5% in December 2015 to 14.5% in February 2017.
With jobs readily available there is still the need for attending third level college – the higher the degree, the better employability will be. But, with 35% of degree holders going to study at postgraduate level, the chances of getting an interview for an advertised job with a bachelor’s degree, diminishes each year.
Graduate Employment is Highly Competitive – You Need a Strong CV
Even if you hold a level 8 degree, don’t despair. Often, graduates have an advantage over more experienced professionals, simply because they understand the latest technologies. With the technological evolution, the IT and digital marketing skills graduates possess are highly sought after, particularly for companies searching to grow their online presence.
However, like everything, the graduate jobs market has become very competitive. Many companies have launched their own graduate programmes in search of the top-talent. There may be jobs available, but you need to show that you are the best.
With this in mind, graduates NEED to be able to sell themselves well and have a strong CV and cover letter that really strengthens their capabilities, highlights their skills and focuses on their achievements. There is nothing worse than having a nicely written CV only to be cast aside for another graduate who has taken the time, spent the money or requested the assistance to write a strong CV.
Elements of a Strong CV
- Action Verbs
- CV Formatting (italics, bolds, headings etc.)
- Correct and Appealing CV Design
- Keywords (Industry Focused)
- Error Free
- To the Point
Have You Got What It Takes?
It can be disheartening to apply to multiple graduate employment programmes and jobs only to be turned down time and time again. Sometimes it is luck of the draw. Sometimes it is your CV. But, most of the time you have simply been out-manoeuvred by candidates who realised they need help.
We are currently running FREE CV Review workshops locally in Sligo Town, every Wednesday from 12 – 3pm until 30th August. You can book your place here. If you are outside of Sligo, still book an available time slot and send your CV to cvreview@cvtipsandtricks.com.
Also, we are offering a Back to School promotion where our CV Services are greatly reduced and, if you order before the 18th August, you will receive an additional 10% discount. Find out more here.
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Source: Irish Times, HEA