19 July 2005
Scots graduates should ensure they are not bottom of the class
Scotland`s university graduates are being warned by a top recruitment specialist to `do their homework` if they expect to get on the career ladder quickly. Simon Warner, Manager of the Temporary Division at Thorpe Molloy Recruitment which places candidates across Scotland, has been shocked by the lack of preparation undertaken by new graduates prior to interview.
Graduates` lackadaisical approach to interviews really hit home for Thorpe Molloy when the team received feedback from companies who were trying to fill graduates for posts in and around Aberdeen. Some oil and gas companies have reported difficulties in recruiting high quality graduates this year, despite starting salaries of up to £24k.
"School may be out for Scotland`s new graduates"` says Simon, "but that doesn`t mean they should say goodbye to homework."
"We were shocked at the feedback which told us how poorly prepared most of the graduates interviewed were," continues Simon. "Despite being briefed on the posts, most had little knowledge of the company or the industry, yet they had responded to a recruitment advert in the press. No-one can prepare for every interview question which they may be asked - but the successful candidate are often the ones who have done the most `homework` before the big day."
Comments and behaviour from interviewees included:
"So what do you do here?"
Being inappropriately presented for a professional environment - wearing facial piercings and with tattoos on show, baring midriffs
Using a standard letter to apply which bore no relationship to the post.
Spelling mistakes and poor grammar in letters - including spelling the name of the company incorrectly.
"Researching the potential employer can take many forms," says Simon. "When we arrange interviews for our candidates, we provide them with background information, but if you have applied for an advertised position then there are certain research steps you can take."
Simon advises;
Reading Material
Find as many sources as you can - a company website can be invaluable, but you may able to access annual or quarterly reportings, corporate brochures and vision or mission statements. If the company has close alliances with other organisation it is worth finding out about them too.
What the papers say
Look in the local, national and trade press to see what the media makes of the organisation. The internet is a good starting place, but there is also the food old fashioned library where you`ll find back editions of trade magazines and business publications which may be relevant.
Dress Code
It can be important to `look the part` at interview, so dress to impress. There is no harm in asking about the office dress code when you call to confirm attendance at an interview.
Ask Around
Don`t underestimate how much you can find out about a company - or at least how a company is perceived - can be found just by asking around. Always weigh this up with the results of your other research.
Job Description
Most employers will provide one prior to the interview - if not - ask for one as it will help you to be prepared.
Your Application
"Many candidates completely forget to reread their own application for a post before they go to interview," says Simon. "You should make sure that you have read your own application again just before the interview. This is especially important if there has been a long time between you writing it and the interview - or if you have submitted several differing applications for other jobs at the same time."
"To really stand out from the rest however," concludes Simon, "Attitude is key. Being genuinely interested in the company as well as the job on offer is vital for new graduates."
Online Recruitment - The magazine for recruitment and HR professional involved in internet recruitment - Tuesday, 19th July 2005
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