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Top 50 IT Jobs in the World: 35-31

July 28, 2016 by Julie McGrath

IT; just two simple letters which describe a monumental mass of technology related topics, but when the phrase ‘IT Jobs’ is mentioned, just how many IT jobs does this describe?

The precise amount of IT Jobs aren’t exactly known however, more are being created every day with the rapid growth of technology worldwide.

So what are the most popular IT Jobs to date? Every day for the next two weeks, we shall post 5 of the top 50 IT jobs and the pathways to employment. Below is our next update of top jobs listing numbers 35-31.

 35. Database Administrator

Average Annual Salary (UK): £29,000

Typical responsibilities / skills: maintain an organization’s databases; design and implement databases, in coordination with a Data Architect; schedule and run regular database backups; recover lost data; implement and monitor database security; ensure data integrity; identify the needs of users and provide access to data stakeholders, data analysts and other users, as necessary. DBAs can have broad or specialized duties. E.g., divide tasks up: System DBA upgrades software for bug fixes and new features. Application DBA writes and maintains code and queries for one or more databases in an organization.

Academic Pathway:

Any degree is acceptable for entry into the profession, although a qualification in a relevant subject such as operational research, mathematics, electronics, computer studies or software/computer engineering can be advantageous. For graduates without relevant qualifications or experience, a postgraduate computing/IT qualification is beneficial.

 34. Software Developer

Average Annual Salary (UK): £30,000

Typical responsibilities / skills: produce the overall design of new software or modules based on requirements passed down; produce flowcharts, algorithms and anything else necessary for the actual coding. Junior developers might start out by maintaining (debugging) existing code / features rather than design new code. If code in an organization is not done separately by Computer Programmers, then it falls to the Software Developers — who might also do testing and debugging, or work with teammates who do that work.

Academic Pathway:

You will normally need a HND, foundation degree or degree to become a software developer. You could choose to study a variety of subjects, including:

  • Computer Science
  • Information Technology
  • Software Development
  • Software Engineering
  • Mathematics
  • Business Information Systems

If you don’t have an IT-related degree, you may still be able to find a place on a graduate trainee scheme. Many larger employers accept graduates with other subjects, providing they can show enthusiasm for the field and have some understanding of the development process.
You could also study for a postgraduate IT conversion qualification, although this is not essential.
There are lots of different programming languages and operating systems, and it may be useful to have some knowledge of these and what they do. Here are just a few examples:
SQL, Javascript, C++, HTML/XML, Ruby, Python and PHP
Oracle, MVC and Linux
.NET frameworks (such as C# (c-sharp), ASP and VB)
Experience of project management methods like PRINCE2 will also be helpful along with a working knowledge of project development processes like Agile.

33. Telecommunications Manager

Average Annual Salary (UK): £33,000

Typical responsibilities / skills: identify telecom needs for an organization, including voicemail; create policies for the installation and maintenance of telecom equipment and systems within an organization; take into account any compliance needs, especially for a publicly-traded company; oversee actual installation and maintenance of equipment (cabling, modems, routers, servers, software); manage of a team of telecom/ networking specialists; stay abreast of new telecom technologies for upgrade consideration; interact with vendors as necessary.

Academic Pathway:

For this role, you are required to possess demonstrable experience of establishing clear security strategies, managing security requirements and contractual compliance across complex business models

Experience of managing senior management within the customer’s organisation

Understanding of telecoms networks and associated technical security requirements

32. Infrastructure Technical Developer

Average Annual Salary (UK): £45,000

Typical responsibilities / skills: understand the SDLC (Software Development Life Cycle); interact with business teams to understand requirements; analyze technical problems in ERP configurations and assess risk; write any necessary code for extending an ERP platform’s features, or to integrate with an organization’s applications.

Academic Pathway:

Bachelor’s degree in information technology, information systems or computer science.

31. Network Manager

Average Annual Salary (UK): £30,000

Depending on company size, this role may overlap with Network Administrator. A Network Manager has overall responsibility for an organizations networks; ensures that networks are always running, especially if customers and/or partners rely on them; devises and implements a plan to either prevent or recover from a disaster. Overall, they are responsible for all the networks, local and non, that drive an organization, and for maintaining the hardware and cabling that goes with the networking infrastructure. That includes installing hardware and software, monitoring networks, etc., or managing a team of Network Analyst/ Engineers and/or the various Network Administrators.

Academic Pathway:

You normally need relevant experience to become a network manager, for example from working as a network engineer,  senior IT support technician or from more general IT management.  You may be able to take up a trainee position as a network manager with a company if you have a foundation degree, HND or degree. Relevant subjects include:

  • Computer Networking and Security
  • Networks and Communications Systems
  • Computer Science
  • Digital Communications and Networks

Employers may also consider you if you are qualified in a subject other than IT, providing you have relevant experience and skills.

 

Sources:

 

Computersciencezone.org

Payscale.com

Glassdoor.com

Google.co.uk

Wikipedia.org

Nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk

Cwjobs.co.uk

Computersciencemajor.org

Study.com

Targetjobs.co.uk

Bayview.silkroad.com

Accenture.com

Work.chron.com

Jobs.bhf.org.uk

Snagajob.com

Kp.taleo.net

Uk.dice.com

Filed Under: Career Advice, Latest Industry News Tagged With: 50, architecture, bachelor, business, career, Computer, degree, development, employment, IT, job, jobs, Role, science, Software, technology, Top, world

Top 50 IT Jobs in the World: 40-36

July 27, 2016 by Julie McGrath

IT; just two simple letters which describe a monumental mass of technology related topics, but when the phrase ‘IT Jobs’ is mentioned, just how many IT jobs does this describe?

The precise amount of IT Jobs aren’t exactly known however, more are being created every day with the rapid growth of technology worldwide.

So what are the most popular IT Jobs to date? Every day for the next two weeks, we shall post 5 of the top 50 IT jobs and the pathways to employment. Here are our next 5…

 

40. Promgrammer Analyst

Average Annual Salary (UK): £40,000

Typical responsibilities / skills: design of applications from a high level first – such as by using flowcharts or other graphical views — as well as actual coding of software; testing and maintenance. Specific programming language skills influence salary ranges.

Academic Pathway:

Bachelor’s degree in computers or related field typically required. Similar work experience, technical skills or relevant certification may be considered in place of bachelor’s degree; must maintain awareness of changing technology

 

39. Network Engineer

Average Annual Salary (UK): £30,000

Typical responsibilities / skills: work with a variety of types of networks including LANs, WANs, GANs and MANs; determine network capacity requirements and ensure that the infrastructure can handle it; monitor and administrate the network; troubleshoot problems. Depending on the size of the organization, a person in this role might also setup, install and configure all types of hardware, from servers and printers to desktops and laptops, routers, switches, support internal network users. Non-standard work hours are a possibility.

Academic Pathway:

You may be able to get into network engineering through a computing apprenticeship with an IT company, or within the IT department of a commercial or public organization.  Another possibility is to take an IT course at a local college to learn the skills needed to install and maintain computer networks. Relevant courses include:
Level 2 Diploma in ICT Professional Competence
Level 2 Diploma in ICT Systems Support
Level 2 Certificate/Diploma in ICT Systems and Principles.
These courses include networking options, with units on:
how different systems communicate (protocols) – TCP/IP, FTP, HTTPs, VoIP and Bluetooth
data transmission technologies – ISDN, ASDL, wireless, and ATM
network security – firewalls, anti-virus software and virtual private networks.
You could also take higher education computing qualifications, like a foundation degree, HND or degree.
If you already have qualifications and experience in related areas, for example in IT support, service and repair, you may be able to move into network engineering.

 

38. Wireless Engineer

Average Annual Salary (UK): £27,000

Typical responsibilities / skills: analyze wireless networking and communication requirements; design and develop network infrastructure; capacity planning; recommend system improvements; document necessary processes; develop any necessary software such as drivers; monitor systems use and performance; setup and run wireless network tests. A senior position might lead a team of junior and intermediate engineers.

Academic Pathway:

To be worth of becoming a Wireless Engineer, Knowledge in the fields of the following will place you on the right starting path.

– SOAP

– ASP.NET

– C#

– MySQL

– XML

– ERP

– Dynamics CRM

Most companies also look for a degree within a computer related technology subject.

 

37. Business Continuity Analyst

Average Annual Salary (UK): £30,000

This role is primarily focused on focused on disaster recovery after a crisis with computer systems. Typical responsibilities / skills: develop strategies for disaster prevention and for resuming operations; ensure backup of data for the organization (process-wise); design and implement computer systems that will support continuous operations; interact with vendors when necessary; design and test recovery plans; report risk potential to senior management.

Academic Pathway:

Possessing a bachelor’s degree in business, information management, or computer science is mandatory for business continuity analysts. Most employers also require that applicants hold designations as either a Certified Business Continuity Professional or Master Business Continuity Professional. Interpersonal skills and articulation helps business continuity analysts communicate solutions to managers. Some experience in IT risk analysis also helps before being hired as a business continuity analyst.

 

36. Infrastructure Technical Analyst

Average Annual Salary (UK): £31,000

This role is often focused on an area of expertise within ERP software, or could require broad knowledge, depending on the specific position. ERP use is common in manufacturing companies, hence why backgrounds for this role vary, including information technology or a variety of relevant engineering education, depending on the industry and the organization. Typical responsibilities / skills: understand business operations and how ERP supports them, to be able to develop improvements; interact with various stakeholders; apply continuous improvement principles, processing mapping, and engineering principles; perform troubleshooting.

Academic Pathway:

A bachelor’s degree in a business major, like economics or finance, is required for a career in technical analysis. Some firms may require employees to have Master of Business Administration or master’s degrees in finance. Depending on the college or university, students may be able to choose from different concentrations, like corporate finance and investments. Finance-degree programs usually include courses in accounting, financial statement analysis, investment management, financial modeling, and statistics.

 

Sources:

 

Computersciencezone.org

Payscale.com

Glassdoor.com

Google.co.uk

Wikipedia.org

Nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk

Cwjobs.co.uk

Computersciencemajor.org

Study.com

Targetjobs.co.uk

Bayview.silkroad.com

Accenture.com

Work.chron.com

Jobs.bhf.org.uk

Snagajob.com

Kp.taleo.net

Uk.dice.com

Filed Under: Career Advice, Latest Industry News Tagged With: 50, architecture, bachelor, business, career, Computer, degree, development, employment, IT Jobs, job, Role, science, Software, technology, Top, world

Top 50 IT Jobs in the World: 45-41

July 26, 2016 by Julie McGrath

IT; just two simple letters which describe a monumental mass of technology related topics, but when the phrase ‘IT Jobs’ is mentioned, just how many IT jobs does this describe?

The precise amount of IT Jobs aren’t exactly known however, more are being created every day with the rapid growth of technology worldwide.

So what are the most popular IT Jobs to date? Every day for the next two weeks, we shall post 5 of the top 50 IT jobs and the pathways to employment.

 

45. E-Commerce Analyst

Average Annual Salary (UK): £27,000

Typical responsibilities / skills: analyze customer e-commerce data for behavioral or other trends; setup or configure reporting or dashboards for easy internal access to such data; create customer profiles for demographic targeting; utilize Web analytics.

Academic Pathway:

E-commerce business analysts often hold a bachelor’s degree or higher in business management, systems management or online marketing. These degrees give them skills in the major software used to track web sales and create multi-variable graphs to predict changes. This role also requires the analyst to have a strong understanding of the rules of web design and branding so as to understand the necessary steps to make a consistent brand image and user-friendly site that maximizes potential sales.

 

44. Infrastructure Business Analyst

Average Annual Salary (UK): £38,000

Business Analyst focuses on “back office” functionality for an organization’s various facets, including CRM, management, accounting, sales. Typical responsibilities / skills: have an understanding of typical business uses of ERP software; interact with various stakeholders to analyze business processes and gather requirements; incorporate business requirements to configure ERP software; interact with developers to build a reporting environment; document organization-specific customizations; conduct any necessary training sessions for use of ERP software and reporting environment.

Academic Pathway:

Good level of general education
• General commercial awareness of impact of client requirements
• Extensive knowledge and proficient in the use of:
Windows Server 2003 / 2008
Microsoft Active Directory and Group Policy Management
Microsoft Exchange 2007 / 2010
Microsoft ISA Server 2006 or suitable firewall
Person specification
Cisco / Extreme or similar
SAN Hardware management / support
Virtualisation Technologies (Hyper-V / VMware)
• Some understanding or knowledge of Microsoft System Centre Products (SCDPM,
SCCM, SCOM), Avaya Telephony and Contact Centre and Microsoft OCS /
LiveMeeting would also be advantageous.

 

43. Technical Engineer

Average Annual Salary (UK): £25,000

Similar titles include Pre-sales Engineer, PreSales Engineer, Pre-sales Technical Engineer. This role is for a product advocate/ evangelist who works with internal sales staff and possibly offers technical consulting to potential customers prior to a sale. They give product demonstrations to sales staff and potential customers and handle the technical aspects of RFIs / RFPs (Requests for Information / Requests for Proposal). So the ability to communicate with both technical and no-technical staff and customers is important, especially to pass on customer requirements to Product Managers.

Academic Pathway:

A degree in any subject is acceptable, although employers typically prefer graduates with qualifications in computer science or engineering engineering, physics, engineering, mathematics, applied science and software engineering. Previous relevant experience gained in any commercial/sales area involving contact with customers or the general public is essential.

– Key skills for technical sales engineers
– Strong technical skills
– Organisational skills
– Communication skills
– Analytical skills
– Teamworking skills
– Sales skills
– Commercial awareness
– Personal skills

 

42. CRM Technical Developer

Average Annual Salary (UK): £28,000

Most CRM (Customer Relationship Management) software has both internal and external (Web) components. Users can be internal (sales staff, support, admin, systems developers) and external (customers, vendors, partners, researchers). These are the users a CRM Developer needs to keep in mind when developing solutions. Typical responsibilities/ skills: experience with a specific CRM system; custom configure a CRM used by the organization; develop custom modules to extend CRM functionality; integrate CRM features into an organization’s own computer systems, including for customer use – which requires experience with a programming or scripting language, and either server, desktop/ laptop, Web or mobile (phone, tablet) development experience as necessary; document custom settings, modules and features for different levels of user.

Academic Pathway:

  • Possess a Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent in a technically related field (i.e. computer science, engineering, IT, etc.)
  • 1 – 3 years’ experience in a technical capacity preferred, but not required
  • Professional demeanor
  • Strong written communications especially related to articulating technical specifications
  • Sound knowledge on concepts of unit testing own code

 

41. Portal Administrator

Average Annual Salary (UK): £19,000

Portal Administrator IT Jobs focus on Web portals and often requires knowledge of a specific portal software platforms. E.g., IBM WebSphere, Microsoft SharePoint. Typical responsibilities / skills: interact with Web and other systems administrators; create or oversee creation of necessary portal databases and user profiles; configure and manage portal applications; perform configuration and upgrade process tests; oversee integration of new technologies into the portal; document portal use policies and procedures (internal); handle relevant trouble tickets; train developers, content managers and end-users as necessary.

Academic Pathway:

Like most computer science careers, portal administrators are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science or information technology, information systems, or a related field. Whatever the educational pathway, aspiring portal administers are advised to have a strong background in programming, database architecture, and security management. In other words, the ideal portal administrator is a well-rounded computer scientist or information technologist with a specific interest and expertise in security issues. Many portal administrators are also expected to hold additional certifications, such as CISSP certifications. In most cases, jobs are posted for portal administrators with experience administrating a particular platform being used by the seeking organization; in fact, job postings are sometimes so specific that they simply appear as an administration opening for a specific program, rather than an all-inclusive portal administrator.

 

Sources:

 

Computersciencezone.org

Payscale.com

Glassdoor.com

Google.co.uk

Wikipedia.org

Nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk

Cwjobs.co.uk

Computersciencemajor.org

Study.com

Targetjobs.co.uk

Bayview.silkroad.com

Accenture.com

Work.chron.com

Jobs.bhf.org.uk

Snagajob.com

Kp.taleo.net

Uk.dice.com

Filed Under: Career Advice, Latest Industry News Tagged With: 50, architecture, bachelor, business, career, Computer, degree, development, employment, IT, job, jobs, Role, science, Software, technology, Top, world

Top 50 IT Jobs in the World: 50-46

July 25, 2016 by Julie McGrath

IT; just two simple letters which describe a monumental mass of technology related topics, but when the phrase ‘IT Jobs’ is mentioned, just how many IT jobs does this describe?

The precise amount of IT Jobs aren’t exactly known however, more are being created every day with the rapid growth of technology worldwide.

So what are the most popular IT Jobs to date? Every day for the next two weeks, we shall post 5 of the top 50 IT jobs and the pathways to employment within the roles.

50. Systems Analyst

Average Annual Salary (UK): £31,000

This role typically analyzes an organization’s computer systems and procedures; makes recommendations for process improvement; interacts with partners/ vendors and with programmers or programmer / analysts. Educational background might be technical, though this is more of an analytical than technical role that is focused on the business aspects of technology, including: analyzing the cost of system changes; the impact on employees; potential project timelines. Needs to interact with department managers on IT requirements; incorporate feedback from both internal and external users into business requirements documents; incorporate feedback from designers; contribute technical requirements; advise technical teams on their and their technology’s role in the organization; provide guidance to programmer / developers with use cases.

Academic Pathway:

To work as a systems analyst you will normally need an HND or degree, backed up with industry experience. Relevant subjects include:

  • Computer science
  • Information management systems
  • Business information systems
  • Maths and operational research.

Alternatively, you could take the Information Technology Management for Business (ITMB) degree. The degree has been developed by The Tech Partnership and employers to meet specific industry skills shortages, for example in project management and business awareness.

If you have a non-IT related degree, you could complete a postgraduate IT conversion course, although companies may still want to see relevant work experience. Employers recommend that you look for a course which focuses on business skills as well as technical ability. You would be expected to have a working knowledge of programming skills and analysis methods. Some of the most common are:

  • SQL
  • VBA, C# (C-sharp) and Java
  • Agile software development
  • SAP business software applications.
49. Business Systems Analyst

Average Annual Salary (UK): £31,000

This role focuses on specific computer systems – compared to a Business Analyst, who will analyze a broader range of processes and systems for an organization. Typically, it requires analytical skills and is business-focused, so often requires a BA background, not necessarily a B.Sc.. It does, however, require an understanding of computer systems and information, and more technical reporting and documentation procedures. Usually, understanding the SDLC (Software Development Life Cycle), UML (Unified Modeling Language) and other technical concepts and skills are often a requirement.

Academic Pathway:

There are different ways to become a business analyst and the route you take will depend on your qualifications, and particularly on your experience.

Many analysts have a technical background, for example in software development or programming. This is helpful as new IT systems and digital technologies often form a major part of an organization’s development plans.

A qualification at degree or postgraduate level can also be useful, in subjects like:

  • Computer science
  • Business information systems
  • Computing and systems development
  • Business management

Employers may also look for recognized certification of your skills from a professional body, like the International Institute of Business Analysis UK (IIBA) or The Chartered Institute for IT (BCS).

48. CRM Business Analyst

Average Annual Salary (UK): £24,000

This is typically a less technical role which may require a marketing or business degree — often a master’s — combined with statistics, but usually requires certain technical knowledge such as database and CRM (Customer Relationship Management) software, specifically. Typical responsibilities / skills: analyze customer relationship data – especially within product channels – using CRM software, and recommend strategy changes for building customer loyalty; define organizational procedures based on the data; document new procedures for internal use — typically for staff in sales, marketing and support.

Academic Pathway:

The minimum educational requirement for a CRM analyst is usually a Master of Business Administration degree, although some employers may accept a bachelor’s degree in a subject such as business, management, marketing, economics or computer science, according to Education-Portal.com. CRM analysts also require experience in marketing, customer service, customer relationship management or market research. They must have strong analytical skills in addition to knowledge of analytical or database software, particularly CRM or business intelligence systems.

47. Software Systems Engineer

Average Annual Salary (UK): £41,000

Typical responsibilities / skills: development and upgrade of computer systems; either interact with data and system security staff or define necessary procedures for them to follow; design, develop and test software when necessary — often middleware; document procedures for internal use, and provide various system and operations documents; participate in various review meetings, including design, program and test reviews with inter-departmental co-workers; define a process for change management.

Academic Pathway:

For entry level, like a large amount of sophisticated IT Jobs, a Bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics, software engineering or a similar area will be acceptable. However, employers do tend to prefer Master Degrees.

46. Solutions Architect

Average Annual Salary (UK): £59,000

A Solutions Architect role is similar to other architect roles and can go beyond the scope of IT. Experience with hardware and software systems is common requirement, as is an understanding of business operations. This role is sometimes but not always synonymous with a Director or CTO (Chief Technical Officer) position. Typical responsibilities/ skills; understand the SDLC (Software Development Life Cycle); have broad technical knowledge of computer systems; conduct process flow analyses; transform business/ customer requirements into technical requirements (functional design document); understand and have experience with databases; interact with developers and bridge different IT architect roles.

Academic Pathway:

Solution Architects usually need a bachelor’s degree or higher related to information technology, software engineering or computer science. Undergraduate programs typically provide coursework that covers different operating systems and hardware compatibility training.

A master’s degree is usually needed for a specialization in systems architecture. Some employers may prefer applicants to have a Master of Business Administration in Information Systems. Graduate coursework includes advanced computer architecture theory, systems design, project management and software engineering. Some colleges also provide graduate-level certificate programs in systems architecture to complement undergraduate training. Courses are similar to those in the master’s degree program, but certificate programs might require less time and have fewer requirements.

 

 

Sources:

 

Computersciencezone.org

Payscale.com

Glassdoor.com

Google.co.uk

Wikipedia.org

Nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk

Cwjobs.co.uk

Computersciencemajor.org

Study.com

Targetjobs.co.uk

Bayview.silkroad.com

Accenture.com

Work.chron.com

Jobs.bhf.org.uk

Snagajob.com

Kp.taleo.net

Uk.dice.com

Filed Under: Career Advice, Latest Industry News Tagged With: 50, architecture, bachelor, business, career, Computer, degree, development, employment, IT Jobs, job, Role, science, Software, technology, Top, world

Telford Superfast Extension

July 22, 2016 by Julie McGrath

Telford & Wrekin Council’s cabinet is set to approve a scheme which will open up Superfast broadband to around 120 extra businesses in the borough.

If an application for European funding is successful, the Marches Broadband Grant project will provide eligible businesses across Telford & Wrekin with a fully funded grant to access fibre broadband.

In Telford and Wrekin, 98 per cent of the borough will be covered by the end of 2017 as a result of the Council’s Superfast Telford partnership with BT and Broadband Delivery UK (BDUK).

The council is committed to seeking a solution for the other 2% of the borough, of which this scheme is potentially one, to get coverage as close to 100 per cent as possible.

The Telford & Wrekin element of the £4m project is seeking £237,818 funding from the European Regional Development Fund , which requires match funding of £158,545.

It is assumed that the level of grant payment to businesses will on average be between £7,000 and £25,000 per business although many grants in Telford and Wrekin are likely to be towards the lower end of the spectrum, as it has more accessible, semi-rural areas.

It will only be open to businesses that have not been broadband enabled by either the current Superfast Telford programme or by other commercial broadband investment.

A total of 124 eligible businesses have initially been identified in Telford and Wrekin and an expected output of around 22 per cent or 27 businesses, including a significant number of micro enterprises will potentially benefit.

Councillor Angela McClements, Telford & Wrekin Council’s cabinet member for Customer and Neighbourhood Services, said: “We have made a commitment to extend fibre broadband coverage across the borough as far as possible.

“The priority is the delivery of Superfast Telford which is still in the early stages of delivery.

“However the Marches Broadband Grant scheme opens up the availability of fibre broadband to businesses that might not be covered by Superfast Telford, although some eligible businesses may receive superfast connectivity via the main programme.

“This demonstrates our commitment to ensure that as close to as 100 per cent of the borough as possible has access to superfast connectivity and all the benefits it brings.”

Telford & Wrekin Council’s cabinet – which meets on 21 July – is being asked to approve proposals for the match funding mechanism.

They are also being asked to enter into a partnership agreement with project partners Shropshire and Herefordshire Councils to deliver the grant project.

– telford.gov.uk

Interested in the development of Superfast Broadband and Business? Why not check out our latest job roles in these sectors by clicking here!

Filed Under: Business Updates, Career Advice, Latest Industry News Tagged With: broadband, business, development, internet, investment, superfast, technology, telford

I’ve Graduated…What Next?

July 14, 2016 by Julie McGrath

I’ve Graduated – What do I do now? 6 reasons why you don’t need to panic!

It’s that time of year again! You have done all the hard work; you have received that really expensive piece of A4 paper that states you have officially entered into the adult world. Employment is looming and inspiration has yet to strike about your future plans, it’s easy to get stuck in a cycle of despair. All of your friends are starting fancy grad schemes or tracking off around Europe, while the only thing you’ve got lined up is a Game of Throne’s Marathon and scheduled panic attacks about the graduate job market, while mum and dad breath down your neck about getting a job!

Your student discount card is about to expire, and if another family member asks you about your career plans then you might just have a breakdown. Sound familiar? These six points might help to reassure you.

1. You’re still young

Those who started a three-year course straight from school will have only just turned 21, so there’s no rush to accept the first 9-5 job that you’re offered. Becky Williams, a recent graduate from Cardiff University, turned down several graduate jobs in favour of continuing with bar work.

She says: “I don’t see the point in accepting a poorly-paid graduate job that I’m not even sure I want to do, just because I’m expected to. I’d rather save up until I’ve had time to decide what I really want to pursue.”

2. Comparing yourself to other people is a waste of time

Just because your housemate has secured their ideal job doesn’t mean that you’re a failure by contrast.

3. You can’t discover who you want to be until you find out who you are

Personalities often change at university, which can be daunting beyond the bubble of campus life. Challenge yourself by experiencing something new, while you still have the chance. Chris Jenkins of Southampton University has just returned from Southeast Asia, in time for his graduation:

“I had wanted to travel and experience different cultures for a while, and the summer before starting work provided that opportunity. It was the best experience of my life. I thoroughly recommend going out into the world and seeing it for yourself, regardless of whether you have a job lined up for your return”, he said.

4. Many successful career-people have ‘fallen into’ their line of work

Recent statistics from the New College of the Humanities found that 19 out of 20 graduates had switched jobs within three years. Be confident enough to accept that your dream career might not be as you had hoped, and devise a new plan according to the aspects that you enjoyed.

5. Your degree won’t go to waste

Deciding that you don’t want to be a psychologist doesn’t necessarily mean that the three years and thousands of pounds spent on a psychology degree was all for nothing – any university education teaches a desirable skill set. According to Prospects, many graduate employers seek degree-level candidates rather than those disciplined in a specific subject.

6. You’re not alone

Marcus Zientek, a careers adviser at Sheffield University, says that many students are unsure of their plans after graduation:

“How uncertain they are does vary, from those who have an interest in a general area of work but have not yet decided about it, to those who describe themselves as not having any ideas at all.

“Panicking doesn’t help and is unnecessary anyway. Don’t let things drift – keep calm and make a plan. Realise that you’re not deciding what to do with the rest of your life, but choosing a good next step for you.”

What to do next – Keep you options open, and get yourself out there!

Graduate careers fairs are an important resource for graduate appointments – even if you don’t get a graduate placement as a direct result of the fair, you’re still taking steps towards your chosen career and moving closer to recruitment in your perfect job.

A suitable graduate placement can be difficult to find, and with the amount of competition vying for graduate appointments you have to use every avenue you can to maximise your chances of finding the right graduate placement for you.

Careers fairs are one of the best ways to find graduate appointments in your area of interest. A careers fair is an excellent opportunity to meet potential employers face to face and market yourself to your chosen industry. Even if you haven’t finished your course and are still in further study, careers fairs are still worthwhile as a source of information, contacts and interview experience.

If you are interested in attending a graduate recruitment careers fair, the upcoming ‘National Graduate Recruitment Exhibition’ may be the ideal opportunity for you. It will be taking place on the 4th and 5th of November and will be held inside the NEC in Birmingham. Check it out by clicking here.

 Job recruitment at careers fairs

Job recruitment careers fairs offer a multitude of benefits to graduates. If you’re ambitious and organised you can get a lot out of a career fair, including;

Honing your interview skills – Even if you aren’t offered a job, talking to prospective employers about graduate appointments gives you valuable confidence and experience of interviews.

Expanding your network – Meeting job recruiters and even fellow graduates helps you build useful contacts for future reference.

Learning industry information – Speaking to job recruitment professionals in your chosen sector is a great way to learn about the industry.

Gathering information about companies – Investigating the kind of graduate placements offered by a company tells you a lot about that organisation as a whole.

Job Hunting

It’s rare to fall straight into a job after you’ve graduated. Job hunting can take several months so it’s important to stay motivated in your job search and make the most of the opportunities and support out there. These jobseeking tips and tricks will help you choose your ideal career, search for job vacancies and stay focused on your career goals.

  • Research industries and companies that interest you
  • Get out there and speak to companies proactively at exhibitions etc..
  • Sign up to recruitment consultancies. Let them help and identify your next career move
  • Stay motivated. It can take a while to find that right job role. It will be worth it!
  • Graffiti Recruitment can give sound industry advice hints and tips on your next move.

If you are interest in IT Technology roles then be sure to check out some of our latest jobs by clicking here!

Need advice on employability? Look no further.
www.graffitirecruitment.co.uk

Filed Under: Career Advice, Digital Training, Latest Industry News Tagged With: business, degree, employment, graduate, IT, jobs, midlands, motivation, positive, recruitment, shropshire, technology, telford, university

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