What can employers do to support the class of 2020?
The class of 2020 has had it rough. Replacing weeknight drinks with ‘team meetings’ is rough in itself, let alone doing so amidst a pandemic.
‘It is the young who are bearing the brunt of the economic damage’
The Financial Times
So how can employers help?
2020 graduates are entering an already saturated job market – thousands of applicants, with decades of experience, are applying for every position.
Right now, we know that hiring anyone, especially graduates, is not at the top of your ‘To-Do List’. However, there are plenty of things we, as employers, can do when supporting the class of 2020.
Internships-
By offering an internships you will allow graduates to:
- Explore different sectors and career paths
- Gain invaluable work experience
- Develop and refine skills
- Network with professionals
- Gain confidence
- (not to mention, your company gets fresh new ideas from individuals who are experts in their field)
Internships are a great way to offer employment without the permanent commitment. They can last anywhere from 2 weeks, up to a couple of months, but the choice is entirely yours.
Internships are flexible and can be carried out remotely. For more information about ‘remote internships’, read our blog on How we work remotely with international interns.
Alternatively, for more information about Internships, read >> What is the difference between a traineeship, an apprenticeship, and an internship?
Though there are some voluntary internships out there, we always advocate paying the national living wage as another way of supporting the class of 2020.
Work experience and voluntary placements-
In linking with the previous section on internships. Potentially offering, work experience or voluntary placements is another way a graduate can take a step into the working world, without economic consideration for you.
These placements usually last a few weeks and revolve around what a graduate wants to learn. They are working voluntarily so ensure there’s a substantial chunk of learning involved. Ultimately, remember, it is equally as much what you can learn from them, as they from you.
Perks-
- Valuable experience mentoring a young person
- Graduates can often bring fresh ideas and approaches
- Providing grads with the opportunity to learn within a company
Consulting and advice-
Lets bridge the divide between employers and graduates!
We know that your inbox might be flooded with emails and speculative CVs from graduates inquiring about different positions.
Rather than leaving them on read, reply!
Explain the lack of positions, and instead, offer up alternative routes into your sector. Point them in the direction of different companies that might be hiring, or link them through to job platforms, where they can apply. Alternatively, you could send them any training links and even offer practical advice, from anecdotes to how you and your colleagues entered into the industry to any words of wisdom you could impart.
By doing this, you’re not only supporting the class of 2020 but reminding them that, though we may not have completed our studies in a pandemic, we were all in the same boat once – however many years ago.
LinkedIn-
Whether you’re an avid user of LinkedIn or a complete novice. It just so happens to be the platform many students turn to when trying to find that first graduate job.
Regardless of your position or the sector you work in, you might receive a few ‘connections’ from students looking to network. Most of the time, they won’t message you. However, for the few that do, make sure to reply. Any words of advice you can give to them will be gratefully recieved.
Think of LinkedIn as your professional Facebook. Rather than posting about what topping you got on your sandwich, post about things you’re interested in. Share your company developments and advice on how you got your job.
If you work in recruitment… share insights into writing the perfect CV for your company.
If you work in tech… share some online programs and courses. etc.
You can also give recommendations and endorsements for students who have worked with you in the past.
Ultimately, supporting the class of 2020 doesn’t mean hiring every graduate CV you receive, but taking the time to respond to those who reach out. Anything you can do to help the transition will really help graduates in the long run.
Considering looking for an intern? Click here to browse our incredibly talented grads, and begin your hiring journey today!