Experts Weigh In On Current Job Market Trends
February 3, 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
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Dr. Musonda Kapatamoyo Ph.D.
Professor, ChairSouthern Illinois University Edwardsville
Department of Mass Communications
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on graduates?
Dr. Musonda Kapatamoyo Ph.D.: We are not very sure about that. However, it is possible that those who did not do an internship to graduate may struggle to learn some tasks early on.
What's a day at work going to look like for a recent graduate?
Dr. Musonda Kapatamoyo Ph.D.: If it's post pandemic, they will need to be handheld a bit more with the given tasks until they get used to working with other people. If the pandemic continues, then students are adept at working remotely. They will adjust just fine.
What technical skills stand out to employers?
Dr. Musonda Kapatamoyo Ph.D.: Our students are excellent at Multimedia production (video editing, audio production, web design, and other content production software). There are also good writers for broadcast, online publications, and newspapers. Most are also self-driven.
