Navigating the job market as a new graduate is filled with misconceptions. Contrary to popular belief, not everyone has a university degree, and there are more graduate job vacancies now than before the Covid-19 pandemic. Employers are increasingly understanding of nonlinear career paths, and having multiple short-term positions is no longer seen as a red flag. While London is often seen as the job hub, many graduates find opportunities in other regions. Graduate schemes are accessible with a 2:2 degree, and strategic job searching, including networking, can significantly enhance job prospects.
Navigating the job market as a new graduate can be challenging, especially with the abundance of myths and misconceptions. Here are five common graduate job search myths debunked to help you better understand the current landscape.
Contrary to popular belief, not everyone attends university. As of the end of 2020, just under half (48.5%) of the UK workforce had a degree or equivalent qualification. This means that over half of the population does not hold a university degree, demonstrating that higher education is not as ubiquitous as many think.
It's often said that there aren't enough jobs for graduates, but this isn't accurate. The number of graduate vacancies is now 20% higher than in 2019, before the Covid-19 pandemic. According to the Institute of Student Employers (ISE), job vacancies for graduates were expected to increase by 22% in 2022 compared to 2021. This growth indicates a robust demand for graduates across various sectors.
Another common myth is that showing multiple short-term positions on your resume is a red flag for employers. Especially after COVID-19, employers are becoming more understanding of the modern job market, where career paths are often nonlinear.
Hiring managers cite many different reasons for perceiving an employee as a bad hire, such as slow learning, attendance problems, and a bad attitude. However, none showed that an inconsistent work history on their resume may have contributed to their faults as an employee.
If you have a gap in your resume—or a period of freelancing or contract work—explain how you used that time to build relevant skills. For tips on job applications, check out how many job applications you should actually be submitting.
While London is often seen as the epicenter of job opportunities, most graduates do not work there. Only 22% of 2019 graduates were working in London six months after graduation. Many graduates find opportunities in other regions, with a significant percentage staying local. For example, in the North East and North West, more than half of the graduates stayed to work locally after finishing their studies.
It's a common misconception that a 2:2 degree classification disqualifies you from all graduate schemes. Many organizations, such as Jaguar Land Rover, the Civil Service, and Network Rail, accept applicants with a 2:2. Differentiating yourself through volunteering, part-time work, and leadership roles in student societies can significantly boost your chances.
For a deeper dive into the misconceptions about degree value, you can read everything said that landed a £50k graduate job in banking.
For those wondering about timing, here’s some guidance on when it's too late to apply for graduate jobs.
In summary, understanding these myths and the realities of the job market can empower you to navigate your job search more effectively. With the right approach, you can leverage your qualifications and experiences to secure a fulfilling role.
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