Graduate Applications: The Corona Effect

With the media awash with gloomy predictions for graduates entering the labour market, it would be reasonable to assume that there will be a marked increase in the number of applications to vacancy ratio. 

Ironically, we are finding that, for graduate roles in the south west, this is not always the case. 

Anecdotally, we hear that many graduates are feeling 'pushed' into further study as the only viable option, decreasing the pool of available talent. Those who are entering the job market are put off applying because they believe competition will be too fierce. Whilst competition for the remaining graduate schemes may be tough, the SME labour market is very different - and sadly doesn't get the press coverage of the big names. 

The best way for us to give candidates a more realistic picture and encourage applications is to highlight the fantastic range of vacancies that are available. To this end, we have increased our social media coverage, taking out more paid campaigns to showcase our latest vacancy list. Where appropriate, we have also countered some of the negative press pieces by stressing that the gloomy headlines do not reflect our experience. 

We're now seeing a healthy rise in the number applications per vacancy and we believe this trend will continue as graduates better understand the local and regional picture. Recruiters can attract more candidates by stressing that they welcome applications from recent graduates who can meet the essential criteria.

It's a tough environment for new graduates. The more we all stress a more balanced and realistic picture, the better!