Graduate Job Opportunities on the Increase for 2013?

The ‘Graduate Market in 2013’ was published early this year with encouraging news that graduate level vacancies are set to increase by about 2.7% more than 2012. The research suggests that the biggest increase in job opportunities is likely to be in the public sector, retail, engineering and industrial companies. Whilst this is welcoming news for the 2013 cohort, it is still below the pre-recession levels and is likely to be very competitive. St Mary’s students can take advantage of the increased opportunities by ensuring that they are fully prepared. According to the 2013 High Fliers annual recruitment report, which is based on responses from 100 leading employers, "Graduate recruiters warn that in a highly competitive job market, new graduates who have not had any work experience are increasingly unlikely to be offered a good graduate job." Additionally, the latest research also confirms that taking part in “work placements or internships is now just as important as getting a 2:1 or a first-class degree," said Martin Burchall managing director for High Fliers Research. Thus, gaining work experience and taking advantage of employer networking opportunities would certainly give St Mary’s students some advantage. It is worthwhile knowing also that a large number of those surveyed said they were providing placements of between six and 12 months. Another half also said they had paid vacation internships lasting three weeks or more for 2012/2013 academic year. Students should also be encouraged to not only look at the 100 top employers but to consider Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), local volunteering organisations and social enterprises where there are plenty more paid and unpaid opportunities which can help in developing the skills and competencies needed to be successful in the graduate labour market. Diana Omololu, Senior Careers Consultant and Graduate Coach, St Mary’s Careers Service.