GET SET TO SOAR
Go the extra mile to get your first real job after university
FOR jobseekers pursuing graduate roles, a university degree alone is no longer enough.
Education and career experts agree internships and industry placements are key.
Career Success Australia program director Narem Chellappah says employers seek graduates who have practical, hands-on experience.
“If 100 graduates apply for a job, and 10 have internship experience, they will have an advantage – plus references from their host company,” Chellappah says.
Swinburne University of Technology employability director Professor Ruth Bridgstock says graduates who gain industry experience while studying are not only more likely to be employed but in a role related to their qualification.
It is why the university is now guaranteeing industry experience for all undergraduate students from 2021.
“Employers know that graduate work readiness isn’t just about qualifications,” Bridgstock says.
“It’s about work-relevant learning that will help graduates transition seamlessly into career roles and add value in those roles.”
BRUSH UP ON SKILLS Before starting an industry placement, Chellappah recommends interns make sure they have the core skills required.
For example, they should learn AutoCAD, or Bluebeam for civil engineering; JavaScript or UX/UI for software development; or Xero or MYOB for accounting.
“Study the company website, learn more about their projects, or ask the host company what to brush up on before you start,” he says.
“If you aren’t ready, then you will spend most of your internship watching YouTube to learn the skills, instead of applying them.”
MAKE A GOOD IMPRESSION
Once on placement, Chellappah recommends interns ask lots of questions, take notes and get involved in as many projects as possible.
“Don’t wait to be told what to do,” he says.
“Ask your teammates if they need help. Identify areas that need more help, then volunteer your time.”
He also advises dressing and acting professionally, always being on time, and never saying “no” to an activity or task.
TICK ALL THE BOXES
Companies are looking for interns who are hardworking, determined and committed, so it is important they show that side, Chellappah says.
“They want a self-starter and someone who will not wait for instructions, but someone eager who will take initiative,” he says.
“Someone who is paying attention, taking notes and one step ahead is what they are looking for.”
MAKE CONNECTIONS
Chellappah says interns should introduce themselves and make a connection with the head of their department or manager of their area.
They should also reach out to the human resources manager and other key decision makers.
“Go out of your way to talk to as many people as you can – for example, in the tea room,” he says.
PUT YOURSELF OUT THERE
Before asking for a job, Chellappah recommends interns get feedback on their performance.
“When you approach the halfway point, ask for a meeting to check off your goals and key tasks,” he says.
“(Organise another meeting) before the end of your placement to ask about your performance and to see if there are any opportunities coming up that you can apply for.
“You can also ask for a reference at the end of your internship.”
ADD IT TO THE RESUME
Chellappah suggests interns keep a log of what they have completed and accomplished in their internship.
“We suggest using ‘action verbs’ to start each bullet point,” he says.
“Examples include: delivering, creating, designing, co-ordinating, leading and preparing.”