Getting a job when you leave University is not the same as it used to be. No, we’re not talking about the number of graduates who potentially end up without work when they complete their studies or end up working in McDonald’s or somewhere similarly irrelevant to their degree, but at the number of graduate schemes that are now available.
Graduate schemes are a great way for companies to bring in those who have recently left University and give them qualifications relevant to the industry. Many people don’t realise that you don’t leave University as a qualified banker or accountant, for example, and that you only get these formal qualifications when you start work, usually through a graduate scheme.
As graduate schemes last a number of years they are designed to foster loyalty and reduce labour turnover. After all, if you are a graduate and you’re happy with the training, qualifications, and salary you’ve received in the past three years, why would you go anywhere else?
Which industries are the best for offering graduate schemes?
Financial Services
This industry arguably offers the best graduate schemes but also the hardest ones to be accepted onto, given the much publicised lucrative nature of the financial world.
Although graduate schemes in the financial services industry can be very demanding owing to the hours you may have to work, you’ll find that upon qualifying many doors will be opened. You’ll be able to stay with the company that got you through your training or look for alternative employment at a company like ACPI Investments.
If you feel that a graduate scheme in the financial services industry might be for you, try to connect with someone within the industry using social media to get an idea of the work involved.
Journalism
Although being a journalist doesn’t often open the door to the massive salaries that many people believe it does, there are plenty of opportunities to earn well if you’re dedicated and are looking to progress through the ranks of a publication during your career.
The best places to start are on newspapers, as these will typically advertise graduate schemes and could be the gateway to specific industry publications like Business Week, for example.
Consulting
If you can get a job as a consultant then you have it made. The reason for this is simple; all you’re essentially doing is imparting your knowledge onto others and getting paid for the privilege.
Unfortunately, it isn’t as easy and straightforward as that makes it sound, although once you build your reputation and become established you’ll find you can make huge sums of money while telling others ideas for how to get the most out of their business and analysing what they could do better.
There is no question that graduate schemes are an excellent way to get yourself into a career without having to worry too much about hitting the ground running. Yes, as a graduate there will be high expectations of you, but you’ll be in an environment that encourages you to grow and learn in order to have a hugely successful career.
Dennis South is a student who is currently looking for graduate opportunities to begin in 2015. Although he doesn’t need to apply yet, he wants to ensure he gets the best choice of placements so he can follow his desired career path.
Marty Huggins
