With this summer brings a fresh batch of 2009 graduates entering the job market. The question on everyone’s mind is: “Will they be able to find work in this economy?” The prospect of finding work has even eluded the most experienced workers who have been laid off. However, graduates shouldn’t lose heart because employers are still hiring, according to a recent news story reported on the CNN Web site. They go on to state that about 43% of employers have plans to hire recent 2009 graduates in the coming year. However, they are looking for experience in addition to “book smarts”, which can be a challenge for some job-bound graduates.
Experience is Key
Employers who were surveyed stated that they are looking for experience as the main factor in hiring. Though it may be tempting to commit resume falsification due to lacking experience in order to get a job; that is never a good idea! Employers are using plenty of employment screening services, like Accu-Screen, to determine what work experience and education their applicants have accomplished. Fortunately, employers who were surveyed said that professional experience is not the only type of experience they are looking for. They also have preference for applicants who have volunteering, school activities, and class work experience under their belts.
Entry Level Can Get a Foot in the Door
Though it may be tempting to only apply for employment at places that require a degree, getting a foot in the door is a great way to get started. Insurance companies frequently hire college grads for positions like claims adjusters and financial or investment analysts. These positions open the opportunity for a graduate to get hired at a large, stable company where they can then move up in the ranks over time. And, because they conveniently already hold the degree that is required to get that new promotion (verified through employment screening at the time they are hired); they will practically be a shoe-in!
Technology is Still the Future
Technology jobs are a great place to start for college graduates. Since technology is ever-changing, there are always new jobs and positions opening up. Companies in the technology sector typically expand operations regularly; even more so than in other industries. Sales positions, IT management, operations, and systems analysts are some of the many positions that are generally available on a regular basis. Companies like satellite television providers, Internet service providers, and cellular phone services have a real need for technology-educated college graduates who can step into a position and will need very little job training.
No Need to Lie to Get a Job
Even though employers who were surveyed in the CNN story each stated that they plan to hire hundreds of graduates in the next 12 months, patience may be necessary before finding a company that will hire a “newbie”. However, don’t let desperate times call for desperate measures; resume falsification is never the answer! Employers can look up everything from salary history, work experience, and tax liens to degree earnings and past job titles held. Employment screening has come a long way since our parents entered the work force, so beware and be honest! With persistence and determination, college grads have as good a chance as anyone to get hired this coming year.
