Gaining industry knowledge through work experience

Contributed by Stuart King, Bayside Group

It's crucial for engineering graduates to be knowledgeable about the industry sectors they're interested in, as technical graduates seeking to enter the workforce need to be better prepared than ever.

The employment market has changed dramatically since late last year. According to Engineers Australia data, there’s still a shortage of 25,000-plus engineers nationwide. However, this could be a best case scenario and engineering companies are still seeking specific, complex skills. Finding the ‘best fit’ remains challenging for employers and candidates alike.

Job-seeking graduates need to understand as much about a company's macro (greater business) and micro (internal graduate recruitment) environment as possible. It helps them maximise their opportunities and stay ahead in a competitive climate.

Candidates who can confidently demonstrate strong industry knowledge and who understand the recruitment process will continue to stand out.

Having managed a graduate program for a large Australian company for the past four years, I can say with confidence that graduates who undertake work experience position themselves best.

They begin their careers with highly relevant industry experience, and they have a depth of knowledge of the culture, people, operations, sector trends, recruitment processes and graduate employment opportunities.

The employment market has weakened and it will only continue to become more competitive and complex. Sharpening your general market knowledge is the way to maximise your job opportunities.

For more information, visit the Bayside Group website.