Graduate careers: good news

With the economy downturn still upon us, this year’s University leavers are getting a tough time getting jobs as it gets ever more competitive.

This year, however, students have been applying more often and earlier for graduate jobs. According to a recent statistic, a third more than last year, which is a good thing. For the first time in three years, graduates are expecting starting salaries to increase. A study conducted among 30 UK leading Universities also indicates that confidence is returning in the graduate jobs market after the gloom of the recession. Salary though, shouldn’t be the priority for those who are at the start of their careers:

“What we have been finding is that, for employers, mindset will often trump skills. That’s not to say skills are not important, they are. But if employers have to choose between someone who has all the right skills but not the right mindset, versus someone who is the other way around but who can then be taught the skills, 97% say they will choose mindset,” explains James Reed, chairman of Reed Jobs.

So it will be even more important to demonstrate that not only you have the right skills but the right attitude and willingness to learn. Salary will come as a consequence.

Original source: http://www.guardian.co.uk/money/2011/jun/04/graduate-careers-picking-up?CMP=twt_gu