Experts Weigh In On Current Job Market Trends
February 18, 2021
Given the change of course that has happened in the world, we wanted to provide expert opinions on what aspiring graduates can do to start off their careers in an uncertain economic climate. We wanted to know what skills will be more important, where the economy is doing relatively well, and if there will be any lasting effects on the job market.
Companies are looking for candidates that can handle the new responsibilities of the job market. Recent graduates actually have an advantage because they are comfortable using newer technologies and have been communicating virtually their whole lives. They can take what they've learned and apply it immediately.
We spoke to professors and experts from several universities and companies to get their opinions on where the job market for recent graduates is heading, as well as how young graduates entering the industry can be adequately prepared. Here are their thoughts.
Our Panel of Experts
Seattle Pacific University
University of Indianapolis
Amy Mezulis Ph.D.
Professor and ChairSeattle Pacific University
Department of Clinical Psychology
WebsiteWill there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on graduates?
Amy Mezulis Ph.D.: I think most clinical psychology graduates will not experience enduring negative effects in terms of their job market prospects. Some experienced a decline in in-person clinical training hours, but for the most part this was short-lived and transitioned to telehealth opportunities quickly. For the field as a whole, familiarity and comfort with telehealth will actually have positive effects on the overall market for mental health workers.
What's a day at work going to look like for a recent graduate?
Amy Mezulis Ph.D.: Most recent PhD graduates will be pursuing postdoctoral fellowships that combine direct clinical work with opportunities for research, supervision, and assessment. So a day might include doing therapy with a few patients, leading a group therapy, doing some research on mental health interventions, and training or supervising students.
How have salaries changed over time in your field?
Amy Mezulis Ph.D.: Pursuing diverse skill-sets in terms of clinical skills, assessment, and research will always allow for the most choice in terms of professional options. Also, networking by maintaining relationships with supervisors, fellow trainees, and colleagues will keep professional doors open.
In your opinion, what are the biggest trends we'll see in the job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Tyronn Bell: From what I've read, there may be an increased need for therapists as the pandemic seems to have affected people's mental health.
If a graduate needs to take a gap year, what skills would you recommend they try to enhance and how should they go about doing it?
Dr. Tyronn Bell: I would say that if there is any additional training they want (e.g., a certification in some area), then the gap year would be a good time to do that.
What general advice would you give to a graduate beginning their career?
Dr. Tyronn Bell: Be sure to really think about what gives you fulfillment and pursue that.
