Experts Weigh In On Current Job Market Trends
November 6, 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
American Society of Radiologic Technologists
What type of skills will young graduates need when they enter the workforce in the coming years?
Greg Crutcher: Young graduates will need to have flexibility and will need to multitask. I think today therapists are being asked to do more than ever in regard to treatment. Technology in the field is moving so quickly and it is important to keep up with all those changes.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for graduates to find work opportunities in this field after they graduate?
Greg Crutcher: I am not sure about other regions, but it does seem like urban areas of Texas currently have more opportunities than other regions.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on graduates?
Greg Crutcher: I believe there will be an enduring impact of the coronavirus on graduates. Being in the clinic daily with cancer patients can already be a psychological stressor and the coronavirus pandemic has added another layer of mental stress for the students. The students are no longer just worried about the normal school requirements but have additional worries of not completing clinical requirements because of the lockdown. Also students have to worry about catching the virus, being exposed or losing loved ones because of the virus. But I also think this time has made them resilient and they have learned to be flexible and adapt to situations. As a radiation therapist being able to adapt to changing situations is very important and I think the students going through the pandemic have learned this better than any previous.
