Experts Weigh In On Current Job Market Trends
December 14, 2020
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
The Whole Person
Terri Goddard
Resource Development ManagerThe Whole Person
In your opinion, what are the biggest trends we'll see in the job market given the pandemic?
Terri Goddard: Everyone at every skill level needs to be more tech-savvy.
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?
Terri Goddard: If a graduate is looking for a non-profit position, they need to be multi-dimensional. I would say more writing skills, and catch up on any tech skills you may be lacking - Excel, learning and being comfortable with apps like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Webex. I would also highly recommend that grads take some public speaking type courses or join an organization like Toastmasters in their area.
What general advice would you give to a graduate beginning their career?
Terri Goddard: I would recommend that any graduate looking for a position in non-profit understand what a CRM is and take some online courses to get familiar with the language. I think as the world changes and grows, being bi-lingual or knowing something like ASL would be an advantage.
