Experts Weigh In On Current Job Market Trends
October 28, 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
Meredith College
West Texas A&M University
What skills stand out on Music Therapist resumes?
Chelsea Waddelow: I expect all of the basic proficiencies required by the Certification Board as a bare minimum. Musically, I like to see an area of specialization that will make you stand out. For clinical skills, the ability to produce accurate, thorough, and professional documentation in a very short amount of time is a top priority. Non-musical or non-clinical skills that I would look for include knowledge of a second language, especially ASL or the second language most commonly used in the job area, multicultural awareness and sensitivity, and excellent attention to detail.
What soft skills should all Music Therapists possess?
Chelsea Waddelow: I would list the top three here: empathy, excellent verbal communication, and highly developed ethical decision-making.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Music Therapists?
Chelsea Waddelow: While all music therapists must be competent in piano, guitar, voice, and percussion before being certified, true excellence in at least one area is very important. It is also essential to have good technical knowledge of music-based apps and the ability to learn different documentation systems quickly.
What skills will help Music Therapists earn the most?
Chelsea Waddelow: Music therapy is not a lucrative career; the most important benefit is knowing that you assist the most vulnerable in our society to lead full and healthy lives. That said, current research suggests that those in administrative and academic positions earn more than those in clinical positions, so diversifying your abilities to include skills like grant writing, higher education, and excellent presentational skills will assist you in transitioning into a different role in the future.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Music Therapist job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Edward Kahler Ph.D.: Yes, we are finding a greater need for music therapists as many folks are struggling with the Covid stressors. Therapists are beginning to get back to face-to-face sessions, but telehealth is still very important. Very cutting edge.
What technical skills for a Music Therapist stand out to employers?
Dr. Edward Kahler Ph.D.: Yes all of our music therapy students must do a six-to-nine-month music therapy internship at a facility of their preference. Many of the internships are very competitive and our students do very well securing them. The interns work full time (often unpaid) with a music therapist for the entire time. After the internship they must take a national certification exam to practice as a professional music therapist. A very interesting item. I have a current intern who will finish up in April. She has just received two job offers prior to finishing her internship. That is an example of how well our students do entering the profession.
