Knowledge versus experience – What do employers really want?

A recent report, 'Seven Years On: Graduate Careers in a Changing Labour Market' has revealed some interesting findings which throw light on the question: is a degree still worth doing?

According to the report now is a very good time to be a graduate with the results from the report showing that six months following graduation, a significant minority of working graduates were engaged in non-graduate occupations, whilst, 69% of the graduates surveyed were in jobs which they regarded as comparatively appropriate for people with their skills and qualifications.

Whilst the findings in this report would indicate that leaving university with a good degree is a pre-requisite in the graduate employment market, many graduates & employers agree that this alone is not enough to secure your first graduate job.

Employers are looking for more than just technical skills and knowledge of a degree discipline. Graduates need to demonstrate to employers that they can “hit the ground running”. In addition to obtaining a relevant degree, graduates should obtain work experience in order to develop skills and experience that will make them better prepared for the world of work.

The Première Graduate Management Development Programme, is a fast-track graduate management programme that aims to transform graduates from all academic backgrounds into future business managers by developing real-life skills which make a difference to organisations.

Now, about to begin its 15th consecutive year, Première has developed over 4,000 graduate managers for the world of work. To date, an impressive 74% of the 2004/05 graduates have secured graduate level employment with 54% being retained by their Première host company.

With an emphasis on the importance of “learning to do by doing”, the new Première Programme now offers successful candidates a permanent job with a local company, in a graduate-level position, with a salary, training development plan & mentor support.

Reflecting on the transition from academic life to employment, this year’s Première Graduate of the Year, Elaine Donaghy said: “After graduating from university, I felt that I lacked the appropriate practical skills that are essential in full-time employment. The range of skills developed during the Première programme definitely increased my employability.

"I would definitely recommend the programme to any graduates. Since completing the Première Programme I have obtained permanent employment with Linton & Robinson, in Strabane and look forward to a successful career in marketing.”

For more information regarding the new Première programme visit www.premiereprogramme.com

(MB/SP)