In a previous post we revealed how to gain work experience, but here we’re going to explain why it is so important for graduates to complete a placement before starting your all-important job hunt. The reality is, although it’s fantastic that you have achieved your degree and this will be highly valued by the employer, you will need more than this on your CV to stand out during the application process. Whether your placement lasts a week, a summer or even a year, you will gain skills that are certain to boost your prospects. Here are our top reasons for undertaking some work experience during your studies.
Find your career path
If you are genuinely still at a loss as to what to do once your have finished your studies then try out some different roles/companies related to your qualifications. Whether your experience leads to you finding the right career path or helps you to determine which you don’t want to pursue, you will still have gained important information in terms of your career development. As a result, you will be able to make informed decisions about what steps to take next.
Prove your motivation
An employer is always going to respect a candidate that not only demonstrates their passion for a role on paper, but who has actually taken the time to discover whether this really is the career for them. Actions speak louder than words as they say.
Gain transferable skills
Even if your work experience placement doesn’t focus on a particular career path, you can still use it to develop key workplace skills. For instance, communication, teamwork and problem-solving are skills that you will need in almost any job. In addition, you’ll also gain general workplace etiquette so you can be reassured that you’ll be 100% prepared for the world of work.
Build a network
A work experience placement offers the perfect opportunity to make contacts in an industry you’re interested in. This could lead to a future job offer whether it’s from that company or even through somebody your contact knows elsewhere. Furthermore, the people you meet will be able to provide you with further information about what the job is really like and answer any questions you may have.
Get a taster
The only way to truly know if a job is right for you is to experience it hands-on. Whether it’s an industry, role or company you’re seeking to discover more about, work experience can provide you with an insight that will help you to make the right decision about your career. Your placement will also be able to highlight which skills you excel at and which will need more work if you’re planning on pursuing this career. All of which will look great on your CV and be a great talking point in an interview.
If you really want to give yourself the best chance of standing out from the crowd during your job search, then complete your work experience to show your commitment to your career development. Whether you know what you want to do or not, work experience can offer some enlightenment in terms of revealing the right career path for you.
Have you ever completed a work experience placement? What did it involve and what did you learn from it? Would you recommend completing one to a friend? Why?