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Career Advice * Inspiration * Jobs * Grad News * Your Future www.realworldmagazine.com
November 2005 Free to Students
LOST FOR WORDS? HOW TO AVOID INTERVIEW NIGHTMARES
Jobs in:
ENGINEERING THE CAREER OF CHOICE FOR INNOVATIVE GRADS
MAKE A DIFFERENCE ...IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR WHY SHOULD WE HIRE YOU? HOW TO SURVIVE AN ASSESSMENT CENTRE
YOU
TE DUEAAR? A R G THE Y ARE
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JOB HUNT DISASTERS THE 6 BIG MISTAKES THAT GRADUATES MAKE
RETAIL ROCKS
WOULD A JOB IN RETAIL SUIT YOU?
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You’d be surprised what we get up to...
Graduate Opportunities Nationwide – Autumn 2006 You’d probably expect to go through exams when you come to PwC. What you may not realise is the amount of training and development we provide after you’ve qualified. You could specialise in a particular field such as banking, telecoms, consumer products – or agriculture. You could even choose to work overseas. Whatever route you take, we take a great deal of pride in the support we’ll provide. In fact, helping our people enhance their skills all the way through their career is one of our highest priorities. And that’s not the only surprise you’ll find here. Another big surprise is that careers at PwC are about much more than simply number-crunching. Whether we’re auditing a company’s financial results, identifying the commercial risks they face, helping with tax planning or assessing the implications of strategic business decisions – it’s about getting beneath the skin of other organisations*.
So wherever you join us, you’ll be dealing directly with clients right from the start, while working towards a professional qualification. And since the challenges we face span virtually every industry sector, the depth and breadth of experience you’ll gain will equip you for an exciting career in whichever field you choose. Even more surprising, you don’t need a business or finance degree to join us. Yes, you’ve got to be comfortable dealing with numbers and you must have a strong academic record. But the subject of your degree is less important than your willingness to contribute and your eagerness to learn. Find out more at www.pwc.com/uk/careers/ Go on. Surprise yourself.
*connectedthinking © 2005 PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. All rights reserved. “PricewaterhouseCoopers” refers to PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (a limited liability partnership in the United Kingdom) or, as the context requires, other member firms of PricewaterhouseCoopers International Limited, each of which is a separate and independent legal entity.
NOVEMBER | 2005
Contents On the cover
z
Cover story: 6
L ost for Words? How to avoid interview nightmares z
Upfront:
12
5
Editor’s Letter: What really happens after uni?
10
Emailz@realworld: Finding work experience, coping with final year stress, who is the best employer to work for?
Brainfood: 12 14
15 16 17
22
RW Features: Big Company or Small Company? It’s a common dilemma: Do you go for an organisation big enough to offer all the corporate benefits or do you opt for the flexibility that a small to medium sized employer can offer? 22 Servants of the People: The public sector has long drawn graduates attracted by the idea of shaping lives and working for the communities around them. But make no mistake, there’s nothing woolly about working in the sector. z
18
32
32
hy Should We Hire You? How you can survive W an assessment centre z Job Hunt Disasters: The 6 mistakes that graduates make z Faking it: Are employers lying to you? Class of 2006: As the first term comes to a close where are our six job hunting graduates? Love that job: Working as a TV extra
38
hat’s in Store? Many graduates are put off the W thought of working in retail. But if you are looking for a fast paced career in a dynamic environment there might be a job for you. z Standing on the Shoulders of Giants: History is full of the names of long gone engineers who changed the shape of our world. But that doesn’t mean that chances to invent and innovate are dead. Far from it, say graduates working in the sector. z
in the next issue of real world:
y Thinking of post graduate study?Read our guide to the opportunities that await you.
y Teacher Teacher: It’s the number two career of
38
choice in the UK at the moment. Could it be the career for you? y Builder’s Block The built environment is one of the largest sectors in the UK. And it’s hungry for graduates from any degree subject.
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Looking for a job? Get online with
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If you’re looking for a great job, start here. Whether you want to browse jobs or search for an employer, location or sector we’ll find the job for you.
Straight to your email inbox: the latest jobs tailored to your profile, news on the companies that are hiring, along with competitions, and up-to-date careers advice.
Fed up with jobs that don’t suit you? Tailor your job hunt in My Real World. Create your personal profile, save jobs ads, and track your applications.
Essential tools and knowledge that will prepare you for the job hunting process. We'll help you identify your strengths and show you how to stand out from the crowd!
The lowdown on the industry sectors you could work in. Find out about current job vacancies, what employers are looking for and which careers match you and your degree.
A new URL for a new online experience. realworld.jobs
Looking for the employer of your dreams? Check out the online profiles for all the info on who they recruit, where they recruit, how you can apply for them.
EDITOR’S LETTER
Photograph: Domenico Pugliese Makeup & Hair: Cate Liasis using Cosmetics a la carte Limited Model: Sapana Agrawal
EDITORIAL: 020 7735 2111 EDITOR Zoë Roberts ART DIRECTOR Jennifer van Schoor DESIGNER Yang Ou SUB EDITOR Joy Persaud
SALES: 020 7735 4900 HEAD OF SALES Paul Wade SALES Josh Marshall, Harmesh Sansoa
DISTRIBUTION: 020 7735 4900 DISTRIBUTION MANAGER James Lynch
ADMIN: 020 7735 4900 MANAGING DIRECTOR Darius Norell Real World Magazine 22-26 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7TJ Tel: Advertising 020 7735 4900 Editorial 020 7735 2111 Fax: 020 7840 0443 www.realworldmagazine.com Real World is published in the UK by Cherry Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or stored in a retrieval system without the written permission of the publishers. We cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts and photographs or for material lost or damaged in the post.
W
Talk the talk.......
hy should we hire you? Just five words but perhaps the trickiest question to answer. But if you are worried about answering this question then it’s worth checking your motivation for applying in the first place. As our cover student Sapana
Agrawal says, you’ve got to have confidence in what you are saying otherwise you’ll not convince your listener (see page 6). And she should know, she’s the president of a student debating society. If you are worried about encountering tough questions in interviews then it’s time to turn to page 6. Too many graduates either leave their success on the big day to fate or simply don’t believe that you can prepare for an interview. But you can prepare, and that goes for those curveball questions too. Talking about preparation, if you are still clueless about your career then don’t panic. One of the biggest favours you can do for yourself is research the company fully. That’s why this issue is packed with graduates in the world of work, telling how it is. For a start – does size matter? Turn to page 18 to find out what a difference size can make. Then we’ve looked at three big sectors that recruit thousands of graduates every year. The public sector has long attracted graduates who want to make a difference. We’ve profiled graduates on the five of the most competitive graduate programmes going and found that there is nothing fluffy about working for the public good (page 22). Then turn to our retail feature. If you think that retail is all about shelf stacking think again (page 32). On page 38 we’ve tracked down graduates in some of the most innovative areas of engineering. We’ve talked to grads who are making a difference every day, whether it’s helping people to walk again or designing the satellites to map climate change. Talking of making a difference have you considered entering our Graduate of the Year 2006 competition? There’s up to £20 000 of prizes to be won by graduates who can convince us that they have done something different with their time at uni. Visit our website (www.realworld.jobs) for the full details. Zoë editor
COMPETITION
20,000 Cash To Be Won! Real World, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Edge and Moloney Search are looking for Graduate of the Year 2006: an outstanding, current final year student who has demonstrated attitude, energy and commitment during their years at university. We’re broadminded about the nature of your achievements, be they extra-curricular, work-based or campus activities. But whatever you have done, you’ll need to think carefully about your experiences and be able to demonstrate what you have learnt to our panel. To enter visit www.realworld.jobs.
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COVERSTORY
LOST FOR WORDS? HOW TO AVOID AN INTERVIEW FROM HELL
Recruiter: So what makes you suitable for a job in a [retail company] store? Applicant: My own initiative, desire, ambition. I can give total commitment and enthusiasm, to put 110% into the job. R: Okay, but 110% into wha t, exactly? A: Er...
R: What do you know about us?
A: You’re a large department store, all round the country . R: Anything else?
A: Umm... that you have been very successful of late. R: Do you think you will be able to work on the shop floor?
A: I don’t mind that. Ultimately I want to work for a prestigious company that will push me forward and I can make a contribution to. Some people just do their jobs and go home, but I won’t. R: What will you do? A: Er...
R: Do you have any questions? A: What can you do for me?
R: What do you want us to do for you?
A: Er, development... and stuff. (From The Mismanagement of Talent – Employability and Jobs in the Knowledge Economy’ Brown & Hesketh)
L
ove them or hate them, the big interview is an inevitability in almost every job hunt. But while having a bad interview can
be seen as a rite of passage, plenty of graduates are inflicting unnecessary hell upon themselves. We all get the basics right – we check the address, arrive early but not too early, don't swear or bad mouth the employer and so on. So, what exactly makes an interview go pear-shaped? "The biggest reason that things go wrong are that graduates decide that they can wing an interview, but you usually can't," says Jenny Goddard, careers adviser at Warwick University careers service. "Sheer enthusiasm alone is not enough to get you through an interview. Students always say they've learnt thiswith hindsight but by then it’s too late." And the problem with hindsight is that it usually comes when you've usually missed out on the job of your dreams, she warns. Lucy, now a senior recruiter, remembers being caught out at the start of an interview. "I'd gone for the interview having done very little preparation. The recruiter asked me what I knew about an organisation,
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IF YOU DON’T “ BELIEVE IN WHAT
YOU ARE SAYING NO-ONE ELSE WILL. CONFIDENCE IS ESSENTIAL.
”
which was an IT consultancy. I told them, 'Well I was reading your web page yesterday but I don't know a lot,' expecting them to tell
Darley has seen his fair share of candidates under pressure. "You can usually tell if someone hasn’t done exactly what they said or
me about themselves. But they replied, 'Well why did you apply for us then?' It was downhill from there. I was dead in the water." Although it's never clear what will happen during the inter-
perhaps stretched the truth of an experience," he says. "If you say you've been a manager, then expect to be questioned closely about your experiences. You can spot a mile off someone who is
view, intensive preparation will set a candidate on the best possible footing for success and quell interview nerves. But, adds Jenny, students often fail to prepare on the one of the most important areas: talking about their skills and achievements.
struggling to describe what they did or has tried to stretch too much out of one experience." Indeed, making the most of your CV is one thing, but sometimes the truth can be sacrificed to your detriment. "When I was the recruiter for Deutsche Bank, one candidate had put on their
I can blag that "An employer will assess a candidate's skills by the evidence and examples they give in their answers," says Angela Vesey, employ-
CV that they were a champion skier," says James. "When I asked about it they were totally taken by surprise. It turned out that they’d just put it on because their careers service had said em-
ability development adviser at Nottingham Trent University. "All too often we hear students say, 'well I can always blag that' but if you claim you have a certain skill because you have taken a major part in an organisation or project ... prepare to be tested."
ployers liked to see examples of extra curricular activity."
As director of graduate recruitment at Teach First, James
Foot in mouth syndrome From the moment you step through the door, remember that
Photographs by Domenico Pugliese. Make-up & hair by Cate Liasis
Sapana Agrawal, 22 (pictured) is studying philosophy, politics and economics at Oxford University. As president of the Oxford Union, student debating society, she certainly needs the gift of the gab. “Chairing student committees, joining debating societies are all really useful activities for students in terms of improving interview technique,” she says. So what makes a good communicator? “It’s about confidence and good delivery,” she says. “You need to grab the point quickly and then be able to deliver an answer with a punch.”
everyone you meet is a potential assessor, including the recep-
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COVERSTORY
tionist. Small talk before and after the interview can be one tricky
or bored," says John Lees, author of Job Interviews: Top
area where candidates are often found to be suffering from footin-mouth syndrome. "On the way into the interview I mentioned how glad I was to be interviewed by someone who works on the floor rather than a 'back office flunky'," says Arun, an English
answers to tough questions. "If you are faced with this, remain professional. You need to be adaptable and offer clear answers and keep checking that your message is getting across.”
Literature graduate. "I knew I was in trouble when they asked me rather coldly whether I considered their job in human resources to be back office."
On the spot With preparation many types of questions shouldn't cause too much angst. For example, competency-based questions, which
But while less would have been more in Arun’s case, employers say that monosyllabic answers are just as bad. "Recruiters won't spend much time prompting you for full answers, they'll quickly get tired of it and give up," says Paul Farrer, chief
are very popular among employers. This is where candidates are asked to describe different situations, often from their CV, and say what skills they learned from them. However graduate nightmares often revolve more direct questions. All too often the basic ques-
executive of the Graduate Recruitment Company.
tion, "why should we hire you?" throws graduates into a spin. But with preparation it shouldn't, says James at Teach First. Bland replies such as, "because I'm a hard worker," won't impress
Interviewers from hell Unfortunately, excellent preparation often flies out the window when you meet a nightmare interviewer. The vast majority of interviewers will be experienced professionals. However bear in mind this is not always the case and that you may be subject to their level of experience and personality. "Interviewers can be inexperienced, antagonistic, unprepared
employers, he says. You need to develop a sales pitch. Look closely at the job in question and list what their requirements are. Then list the skills and abilities you have that meet these requirements. Match these two and think closely about your own motivation for applying: that's what you want to sell to the employer. Another area students also choke is on situational questions. These present you with hypothetical problems to
“
Questions from hell include: if you were a roundabout, what song would you sing 24 hours a day?
”
solve on the spot such as, 'You are not getting on with somebody at work. What do you do?' But, says Angela: "There usually is no perfect answer. Often the employer is looking to see whether you panic or whether you can respond and then clearly talk through why you came to that conclusion. They just want to know that you can think on your feet." Nightmare questions A more extreme example of being put on the spot is the stress question. These are purely designed to test you how you respond under pressure. Examples include: "If you were a roundabout what song would you want to sing 24 hours a day?"" or "sell me this paper clip".
10 INTERVIEW QUESTIONS TO check-out YOUR future employer
John Lees still remembers as an arts graduate being asked to calculate 8.5 per cent of 17,000 in
Remember that interviews are a two-way process. The following questions could help you uncover the truth about the kind of training on offer to you:
guess, but I didn’t get the job," he says. "But what they were testing wasn’t my numeracy, it was my
1 H ow do you measure the quality of the graduate development you offer, and
compare it to other leading graduate employers? 2 W hat is the objective of your graduate programme? 3 H ow involved will the senior managers of the organisation be in my
development? 4 W ho are the good role models in the organisation, and why? 5 H ow do you handle graduates who are not making the grade? 6 H ow does the organisation measure the return on investment on graduates? 7 O n average, how long does a graduate trainee stay with you? 8 W here do your graduates go when they leave, and what do they think of the
development you have offered them? 9 W hat development do you offer when recruits have completed the graduate
programme? 10 W hat development opportunities are there for me to contribute to the wider
community, as well as to the performance of the business?
an interview. "I froze in the headlights and made a
ability to respond to demands under pressure. Now, I think I might have made a snappy answer, such as 'give me a calculator'." Contrary to popular belief, graduates can prepare for stress questions, John says. By looking up tough questions and practising how to answer them you will get better at responding. However, don't parrot-learn answers and keep a cool head even if your instinct is to run away. "Listen carefully to the question," Lees says. "Pause, but don't leave it too long or the recruiter will conclude that you can't think on your feet." But sometimes, even with the best of preparation, interviews can still go badly. If that happens, then it's time to ask for feedback, take it on the chin, learn from the experience and move on.
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A Career with Reckitt Benckiser... ...you’d be off your trolley not to
Fast Track Graduate Programmes • Marketing & Sales • Finance • Supply • Research & Development Starting salaries £23 - 25K + 25 days holiday, company sharesave and pension.
UK Healthcare Reckitt Benckiser is a hugely successful global FMCG company that holds a strong position in the FTSE 25. We are the name behind many market-leading health & personal care and household products, instantly recognised brands such as Finish, Vanish, Airwick, Lemsip, Gaviscon, Veet, Cillit Bang, Dettol and Harpic. Our world-class people are the creative force driving our market leading brands, which is why we only employ the best.
Central to everything we do is a uniquely confident, entrepreneurial culture. It is all about a passionate commitment to understanding consumers, to competing hard and to delivering the best products to the market place. It is about rewarding talent and, ultimately, to winning. Each function offers a different training programme, but all are real roles where you contribute to the business from day one, operating in fast paced, pressurised environments with mentor-supported training and development. Progression at this level involves a very steep learning curve; we are demanding, but we are prepared to invest in you to the fullest extent.
* Supply and Research & Development roles require Engineering and Chemistry related degrees respectively.
At Reckitt Benckiser we offer you exceptional benefits, international career opportunities and a flexible career path where you can go straight to the top. As a potential director you’ll be a natural leader, confident, determined and resilient. If you expect to achieve a 2:1 degree*, have 22 UCAS points and want a challenging career, we’re the company for you. These positions are in our Healthcare Business, located in Yorkshire, home to our largest UK commercial, manufacturing and research centres. Visit our website and apply online now for a September 2006 start. Closing date 23rd December 2005.
www.reckittbenckiser.com/ukgraduates
LETTERS
Fed up, excited, want to request information, pass on a good job-hunting tip or just have a general whinge? Don’t hesitate to email us at Real World.
emailz@realworld.com Send any emails to zoe@realworldmagazine.com Please specify if you don’t want us to include your full identity.
New age problem? LETTER OF THE MONTH
Dear Real World My problem is I’m a very mature student. I’ll be 34 by the time I finish my degree. I’ve been to a few graduate fairs and have seen a range of
Final year stress out Dear Real World, It’s my final year and I’m swamped! My workload is seriously stressful and I don’t see how I’m going to manage to apply for jobs at the same time. But I don’t want to leave it until after uni to look for a job, so what should I do? Sarah Ed: Searching for a career is time-consuming and the more successful you are the more time - in interviews and assessment centres - it can take up. However, this doesn’t mean you have to totally neglect your career hunt. You don’t mention whether you know which sectors you want to apply for. This will influence your timing, as some graduate schemes have early deadlines in November and December. You are already close to the deadline for a number of big employers. (Real World, September, listed a number of these deadlines; or
options and open doors that hadn’t been available to me before my degree. However I felt at least 10 years older than anyone at the careers fair, particularly the people on the employer stands. I’d love to apply for some of the graduate management programs but I’m not sure if they’d accept someone of my age. Jo Moorecock, Edinburgh
check your university careers service website). Planning is essential when you are time-poor. Ideally you would have started a couple of months ago, so try to build a schedule or week-by-week timetable of what you’d like to achieve. For instance, research employers, apply for six jobs and so on. The main thing is to break it down into
Ed: First, stop seeing your age as a problem. Graduate employers are increasingly welcoming to mature applicants but frequently complain that they undersell their skills and experience or apologise for
manageable chunks of a few hours a week and plan carefully.
their age. It is actually a selling point – your
”
GRADUATE OF THE YEAR DEADLINE: IF YOU THINK YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW COULD BE THE REAL WORLD GRADUATE OF THE YEAR 2006 AND WIN £10 000 THEN IT’S TIME TO START APPLYING. THE DEADLINE IS JANUARY 16 2006. LAST YEAR’S WINNER HAZEL MOWBRAY (PICTURED) PACKED AS MUCH INTO HER TIME AT UNIVERSITY AS POSSIBLE, WHILE MAKING SURE SHE HAD A THOROUGHLY GOOD TIME DOING SO. VISIT WWW.REALWORLD.JOBS FOR MORE INFORMATION
combination of qualifications and experience are just what employers are after but, like every graduate, you’ll need to sell them effectively. Check www.realworldmagazine.com for advice on marketing yourself. Also ask at your careers service for the Real World diversity publication, Advantage, which contains case studies and some great tips on overcoming negative stereotypes of mature applicants. From next year it will be illegal to discriminate against anyone on the grounds of age. While this might not seem incredibly relevant to you in your job hunt, it means that employers are making increasingly concerted efforts to show that they welcome mature graduate applicants.
Photograph: Domenico Pugliese. Illustration: Mo’Mint Studios
“
PLANNING IS ESSENTIAL WHEN YOU ARE TIME-POOR. BUILD A SCHEDULE OF WHAT YOU’D LIKE TO ACHIEVE.
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UPFRONT
Career Coach
Got a problem? Send it to us at Real World Financial advice Dear Real World What are the best companies to apply for when looking for a graduate position in financial or business administration? Ben Ames, via email Ed: There is no easy way to define ‘best’: different companies offer different benefits, and much depends on what you are looking for in your career. At the most basic level, a large company will require specific business and financial administrators and will usually pay well. A smaller company will provide a more varied work programme but may not pay as well (for more on the benefits of working for large and small companies turn to page 20). ‘Best’ also depends on where you want to work. If, as you mention in your email, you’d like to stay local then check out the ads in your careers service website, as local employers often place ads there. Only you can decide which company is right for you. Organise work experience to check out different work environments and remember to use interviews as a two-way process: ask your interviewer questions to get a handle on your career and training prospects.
Dear Real World I’m in my first year studying human resource management. I read your September issue of Real World, which is great for students like me. It gave me an introduction to the jobs available in the financial sector. I am interested in working in finance but feel I need to gain some work experience to get a clear idea of what jobs might be available to me when I graduate. I’d like to apply to work as a summer intern in my area of study. Am I eligible as an undergraduate student? And how can I get a position? I’m also wondering if there are other areas of work experience that might be useful to me. I have done some retail work before in Mango but I’m not sure how relevant this would be to my applications. Shulin THE EMPLOYER’S VIEW Dear Shulin Summer internships are a great opportunity to get a taste of the work and culture in the financial services industry as a whole. Your internship will hone your skills, develop your experience and allow you to invest in connections that will help you get a graduate offer. At Deutsche Bank we accept applications from students in their second year of study onwards. You can also apply for an internship to fit between your undergraduate and master’s degree. The key to getting an internship is to be able to demonstrate that you have the qualities employers are looking for (communication skills, teamwork, motivation, attention to detail and so on) in abundance. You can do this by giving as many examples of you using these skills as you can. So, yes, your experience at Mango could be relevant – it depends on how you describe and position it. Another important quality we look for at Deutsche Bank is focus. For instance, in HR there are many functions within the division, such as advisory, recruitment, training, diversity, compensation. Knowing about these shows you know what you want. This also applies to knowing about the industry in which
Graduate career fairs
you want to work. In your first year you should meet companies on campus to work out
Dear Real World I’ve been attending a few careers fairs recently and haven’t really got much out of them apart from a few freebies. Many of the people on the stands just tell me to check the websites when I ask them questions. Am I doing something wrong or are they just a waste of time?
the kind of career you are interested in. Signing up for events such as interview workshops or visits to employers’ offices will give you an edge. Ngaio Henderson, Deutsche Bank Graduate Recruitment
THE EXPERT VIEW Dear Shulin To take your last comment first, any experience can be counted as work experience - the important thing is to reflect on whatever it is you have done so you can talk about it. Employers want to know what you can do for them and want evidence of what you have achieved, whether it is having done part-time
Adam,
work, voluntary work, or short or long-term placements. What is also important is that you have an understanding of the ‘employability’ skills that employers look for,
Ed: Careers fairs are what you make
such as problem-solving, communication and IT skills, along with being literate and
of them. Ensure that you’ve done enogh preparation before you attend. If you still don’t find what you
numerate. All of these can be developed from any kind of work experience.
want talk to your careers service to find out about open days and employer presentations. They usually offer you the opportunity to talk to experienced recruiters.
Many larger employers have placement or internship programmes for undergraduates either during the summer or for 12 months. Identify an employer you might want to apply to, look at their website and see what they have to offer and how to apply. A well-run programme will give you opportunities to find out about the variety of jobs available and help you to make an informed career choice. Liz Rhodes, director, National Council for Work Experience
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BF BRAINFOOD
NEWS y VIEWS y ADVICE y STRATEGIES
TestingTimes
How to handle an assessment centre
A
ssessment centres are considered by many employers to be one of the most effective selection methods around. Unfortunately, the idea of being scrutinised by recruiters tends to induce panic in graduates. But assessment centres can be a rewarding experi-
(introduction of the issue, the main bulk, a closing summary, or proposals for resolution of a problem). Make concise notes but don’t read from a script or lose eye contact with your audience. Remember to stick to the
ence. Your best bet is to prepare well and give it your all on the day. “Remember, if you’ve got this far you’ve done exceptionally well,” says Noreen Cobbe at business services firm, BDO Stoy Hayward.
time limit and watch out for ‘ums’, ‘ahs’ and dodgy body language.
Checklist:
1
Research...Think about why you want the position and the skills required for the role, because many of the tests will simulate aspects of the job. Read trade magazines and re-
’t panic! “ don your best bet
is to prepare well and give it your all on the day
”
4
Aptitude tests... These demand numerical efficiency (interpreting data from statistical tables), verbal comprehension (evaluating the logic of given statements) and diagrammatic reasoning (finding connections or associations between
acquaint yourself with the graduate brochure. Contact the
diagrams or symbols). “If ability tests are going to be part of the
organisation for information about their
assessment centre then practice,” says
assessment process and ask them to send you any briefing materials.
Noreen. “You’ll find advice on employer websites or online.”
2
5
social events.
all the documents quickly at first, then prioritise the most important information.
Practice... Make full use of any careers service practice sessions or
employer events on campus. These are confidence builders and give you a feel about the challenges you will face. Prepare a few good questions for Q&A sessions, or (supposedly) informal
3
Presentations... How do you assimi-
I wonder what’s for lunch...
In-trays... Your task will be to file paperwork, mail or memos in order
of importance, drafting replies and delegating tasks. “It’s a good way to see who can get a grip under time pressure,” says one recruiter. The most important factor is time management - read through
You may be assigned a fictitious team member role and asked to attend a meeting with your fellow candidates. Remember that you are trying to show
late information and cope under pressure? Here, you will prepare a topic in advance, speaking to the selectors and other candidates for between 10
Group exercises… These can involve anything from working on a case study together, such as the release of a new product, to problem solv-
6
your ability to work with others as much as your ability to shine. “But do remember to speak up!” says Noreen. “You don’t have to dominate the group but if you don’t
and 15 minutes. Think clarity and structure
ing exercises or leaderless discussions.
participate then we can’t assess you.”
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Super! I can’t wait to excel at the group interview.
Get with the Group
Group exercises are one of the most closely observed parts of the assessment centre. Peter Levin suggests how to ensure success. First, be aware what employers say they are looking for: good team players, good communicators, people who can ‘hit the ground running’, and so on. Second, be aware of what they are actually looking for: people who will ‘fit in’ to their organisation, feel at home with the people working for them, and generally be happy cooperating with others. This last point is vital. The culture of the workplace - or at least the culture that many employers would like to have in their workplace - is one of cooperation. And, this culture is a world away from the ‘individual achievement’ culture of higher education. There are other differences too. Out in the real world, the focus is on tangible products, not examination answers. People are concerned with issues, not abstractions. Interaction takes place in meetings, not lecture theatres. The effect of all this is that when you go into a group exercise you are in for a culture shock, particularly if you haven’t worked in a group before. Of course, there’s no way that anyone who’s in the throes of a culture shock can perform at their best, especially if they don’t know what the assessors are looking for. What can you do to prepare? If you’ve been involved in group projects as part of your academic work, you have a head start, but you must be able to stand back from the experience. So look back and ask yourself: What went well? Be aware of the different roles that people perform in groups: The Organiser (keeps meetings focused and in order, determined to get through the agenda); The Facilitator (ensures that the quieter members of the group are heard and everyone’s contribution is acknowledged); The Recorder (keeps a note of key decisions and ensures that everyone is aware of them); The Timekeeper; The Coordinator (sees the ‘big picture’ - the strategic overview - and has an eye for gaps and overlaps; The Lookout (visualises future scenarios, is alert to issues that may be looming over the horizon); The Encourager (brings good humour to proceedings, defuses tensions and revives morale). It’s performance in these roles, as well as the contribution of ideas and suggestions, that assessors watch for. Look out for such roles yourself, and develop the knack of taking up any role that’s going begging. The assessors will be impressed, and you’ll enjoy yourself. What better outcome could there be?”
Verbal and numerical reasoning tests? Fantastic!
Afterwards... the social event
questions about working with the compa-
There will be many opportunities to socialise at an assessment centre, especially over meal times. You might be told you
ny. Be sure to watch your alcohol intake and make a good impression as these recent grads will often be asked for their
aren’t being assessed. You are. Employers will still be watching to see how you mix and interact with others. At evening meals you will often meet recent graduate
opinion of you prior to any job offer. “You are not being assessed but impressions do often filter back through,” says Noreen. “Remember you are still within
employees, to allow you to ask more
the four walls of the business.”
Peter Levin is Educational Developer (Student Support) in the Teaching and Learning Centre at LSE. He is also the author of Successful Teamwork! (Open University 2004)
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Bitter Experience What are the worst job-hunting mistakes that students and graduates make? Real World lists six ingredients that will leave a sour taste in your mouth.
1
Lazy Bones. Not spending enough time on the application form. The “I’ll just send it off and see what happens” approach usually ends with a rejection. Laziness also means not checking applications for spelling mistakes or blatant cutting and pasting from one online application to another. Similarly, not taking enough time to research the vacancy is a classic error.
“
Motivation is what makes you sucCessful in a job Environment or interview.
3
”
Not talking the talk. You have to
5
Low motivation. “The most common flaw among graduates is lack of motivation,” says one graduate recruiter. “They haven’t thought about why they want to work for this particular organisation. Motivation is key: part of what makes you successful in a job environment is that you really love what you do if you don’t get that sense from a candidate in applications or interviews,
convert all the things that you have done and the responsibilities that you have undertaken into a language
then what’s the point?”
for jobs. The majority of vacancies are not advertised, so you should consider making speculative applications and
that employers will recognise. Just listing what you did isn’t enough.
of thinking about your desired end (‘a job’), think about what you really want long-term. People are told to
ask people you know if they have heard about any vacancies. “Graduates should look for vacancies in a variety of places,” says Steve Fish, director of Sheffield University careers
One CV will do. It won’t. To be effective, you must tailor your CV to each job applied for. Again, a CV isn’t just a list of what you have done. Many graduates will say that they are
come to a decision very fast, but it’s much more productive to work out what it is that drives them; what they find interesting; beginning with the subject areas of their whole educational history.
service. “And they should also seek advice on where the jobs for new graduates are advertised such as their careers
great team-players and are highly motivated etcetera, making claims with very little evidence... or they neglect to
Even if you think you know what you want to do, the challenge is to be sure. What are your aspirations? So you want to
service vacancy bulletin.” For example, Sheffield, with a number of other universities in the area, have set up Graduate Link, an online job board for graduate va-
communicate the most interesting things in their experience. Think about what each employer is looking for, and focus on the skills you used. For more CV advice see
work in ‘marketing’? Why? And what exactly is marketing? And what area do you want to work in? And for whom? The better you can pinpoint your target, the
cancies in Yorkshire and Humber.
www. realworldmagazine.com
quicker you will get there.
2
Looking in all the wrong places. Think about where you are looking
4
6
Rushing ahead of yourself. Instead
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Barometer
totally believe our marketing material anyway,” argues one graduate recruiter.“If we started being more realistic about the level of responsibility graduates initially get, they’d think it was even worse than that.” So don’t think that you’ll be able to obtain everything you need to know from the recruitment blurb. Nearly every company is an Investor in People and nearly every company has great sounding corporate values. But in practice there is a wide range of corporate behaviours, many of which might not suit your needs.
overselling its opportunities. But sometime at the start of this dec-
The best way to cut through the fluff is to use the inside track - to
ade graduate recruiters realised the real problem facing them is not attracting graduates. It’s getting them to stay. “We were getting maybe about 10,000 applications a year,” Accenture told us.” Quite often they were from people who didn’t really
“
I don’t think that students believe our marketing material anyway
”
get work experience or talk to a friend or family member who has worked with the organisation. Also look at alternative sources such as trade magazines and some of the top 100 or best company lists, which will tell you graduate turnover. Then use any face-to-
know what management consultancy entails. Then in the marketplace there was very little differentiation between employ-
face interaction such as job interviews or employer presentations as an opportunity to ask probing questions.
ers: you’d find they’d say ‘we offer steep learning curves’ or ‘we’ll fast track your career. We decided to say ‘this is what it’s really like’.” But not every employer is
Make sure you ask realistic questions that haven’t already been answered in the recruitment literature (see our cover feature). And think long term: what will this
so enlightened. “I don’t think students
job offer you in six months time?
Company blogs: Graduates at Cadbury Schweppes are being encouraged to tell life how it is at the company, via an online blog. Graduates at the confectioner have been told to “write freely” about their work experiences and to blog comments on its graduate internet page. Anthea Marris, graduate resourcing manager, says the blog will “offer a window right in to the company” and what it offers graduates . But don’t expect any dirt to be dished – the blogs aren’t anonymous. Sucking up: Job-seekers in the US are resorting to ever more desperate measures to get noticed, according to a survey. Their bizarre antics have included wearing a tuxedo to interview, sending a flower arrangement with their CV and bringing references along in person.One would-be employee bought Starbucks goodies for the entire office.
<< Lukewarm
A
few years ago, Real World interviewed a graduate with a blue chip on her shoulder. Vick Povey, a former accountancy trainee, had quit only a few months into her first job. “It left a lot to be desired,” she told us. When [I was] in the office all I did was photocopy or write the occasional covering letter without having any real responsibility. In the milkround they talked about hands-on client contact but in my time there I didn’t meet a single client.” This was a classic case of a company
<< Freezing
How to cut through the corporate blurb
Going abroad: Otherwise known as the ‘global brain drain’, Britain has lost more skilled workers than any other industrialised country, according to a report by the World Bank. More than 1.44 million graduates have left the UK to work abroad. Still, it’s good news for those who want to see the world.
Me, me, me: A study by Florida State University’s College of Business, has identified the “Entitlement Generation” - those born between 1979 and 1994 - as impatient, self-serving, disloyal, unable to delay gratification, and they don’t like working for anything.
Are employers faking it?
They want you!: Demand for new graduates has been picking up over the past two years and, despite current economic uncertainties, looks set to continue in the coming year, according to the latest annual study by IRS Employment Review. Employers who recruit new graduates reported a strong demand in 2004/05; three in 10 wanted to recruit more graduates than the previous year.
<< Scorchio!
Real World reviews this month’s trends...
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Classof2006
Some battle disorganisation, others have interviews… the latest from our six final-year students.
1
Photographs: Ed Miller
NAME: Heather McLarty DEGREE: BA Media Performance UNI: University of Luton The Plan: Heather will be looking for jobs with media production companies but is also considering a career as a drama therapist. Story So Far: Hazel attended a media careers fair where she saw a presentation on succeeding in the media. Experience of some sort is key, she heard. “I’ve been emailing a number of television companies and have sent off a couple of speculative applications looking for work experience. You really need to get experience to get a foot in the door but it’s tough as many of these places don’t even pay travel costs.” The university has already provided training on CV’s and application letters as part of the second year. On her plan’s to explore drama therapy. “I’m working on a big project at uni related to this which I hope will give me some insight.” Advice for next Year’s Students: “When you leave uni you want to get paid work but unpaid experience is standard in this industry so try to get it while you are still at uni.”
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NAME: Paul Raven DEGREE: Bsc Managerial/ Administrative Studies UNI: Aston University The Plan: After a sandwich year at LogicaCMG Paul felt store management or operations would be his career of choice. Story So Far: So far Paul has had interviews with Tesco, Aldi and Lidl. Tesco have offered him a place but on a slightly different programme. The assessment day at Aldi went well but not quite well enough. “I don’t think I did very well in the group exercise. Everyone was a leader so it was difficult to make that work as a group.” What’s Next: “Study deadlines are looming so I need to focus on those. I know when most of the employers are closing recruitment so I’ll keep an eye on that.” Paul’s also heading along to the career fairs to gather more info. Advice for next Year’s Students: “When I got to the interview stage with Aldi I found the role was slightly different to what I’d expected. I’d say definitely make sure that the company is right for you and if you get to interview stage listen to what they have to say.”
3
NAME: Wing Yee Li DEGREE: English Literature UNI: University of Edinburgh The Plan: Following a summer placement with charity Cancer Research Wing wants to find a job which will allow her to give something back to society and make a difference. Possible options are teaching, social work or working for a charity. Story So Far: “I’m starting a job as a youth worker assistant next January on a black community development project. It’s one evening a week and may turn into a bigger commitment.” On her plan’s on going into social work or teaching. “I’m growing less keen on the idea of extending my academic career. Our careers service has been promoting Teach First and that really appeals to me as you get dropped into a classroom almost immediately.” Advice for next Year’s Students: “Think very carefully about whether postgraduate study will suit you. I’ve decided against it as I’m not keen on extending the pain of essays and deadlines for another two years. But it may suit others.”
4
5
NAME: Emma Barker DEGREE: BA Philosophy UNI: University of York
NAME: Lawrence Freeman DEGREE: BA Politics & Sociology UNI: University of Exeter
The Plan: Emma’s keen to get to get into consultancy or management training. Story So Far: Emma has thrown herself into her job hunt. As well as attending numerous presentations by both employers and the careers service she’s decided to upskill through a range of courses provided by her careers service, including presentation skills and business skills. She’s also swotting up on her numeracy skills “I’ve done a lot of work on my CV and attended a number of sessions on writing good cover letters.” She’s met some good contacts at some of the careers fairs. What’s Next: “I’m not applying to as many consultancies as I’d originally planned to, as I’ve realised it’s better to just select a few and make the most of them.” Emma’s also applying to professional services firms like PwC, Deloitte and KPMG. Advice for next Year’s Students: “Use your careers service. They’ve been a great help in terms of planning and skills. I just wish I’d done a lot of this earlier.”
The Plan: Lawrence has decided to apply for internships after uni rather than going straight into a full time job as he wants to get some experience. So far he’s considering careers in the civil service or the European Union. Story So Far: Lawrence attended a careers fair and gathered a few ideas. “I was going to start doing the Civil Service fast stream application but I have decided not to start applying this year but do it next year when I’ve done a few internships and I’m a bit more focused.” He’s also feeling that he’d like to find a career that involves some international travel. “I’m still focused on taking a year to decide what I fancy doing rather and I’ll soon get networking and see if I can secure internships.” Advice for next Year’s Students: “There is definitely an large amount of sugar coating going when people talk about the jobs that are on offer. An internship will let you try it for yourself.”
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NAME: Alick Varma DEGREE: Bsc Maths & Economics UNI: University of Warwick
I’ll do that job...
Having a part-time job is a fact of life for the majority of students. Real World talks to one grad whose job is leading to a full time career. Who are you? I’m Leslie Durrell- Loveday and I’m 23 years old. I studied business at Brighton University and graduated with a 2:1.
What was your part-time job? I was an extra in films, music videos and TV shows. During university I realised I actually found business studies quite boring so it wasn’t the career for me. During the course a friend got me onto a reality TV show which I found quite enjoyable. Later I realised that I could do this part-time
Schools in London. As a part-time job it was brilliant. You can get about £70 for basically standing around. It’s usually quick money if you are skint. I was offered a week on Holby City (below left) and that included free food, which was great, better than most part-time jobs.
What exactly did you do? Well it mostly means a lot of waiting around. You turn up and
alongside my studies to make some money.
maybe the casting agent will say to you to chill out until we need you. In Murder Investigation Team, which was a TV spin-off from The Bill, I
How did you find the work? First through
played a bar man where I had to serve someone and say “Can I have £3.20?” I also
friends and contacts. Then through a company set up by a fellow student called Uni-versa lExtras Ltd.
went along to a casting for music video: that involved pretending to be a werewolf.
Do you need any skills? No skills are needed Did you enjoy it? So much so that I’ve gone onto study acting at the Arts Educational
other then enthusiasm and professionalism Patience is also useful.
Do say: Only what you are told to. Don’t say: I am an actor: what’s my motivation? Further info: Courtesy BBC
The Plan: Having completed an internship at Accenture and run his own business Alick was split between whether to striking out on his own or applying for jobs in management consultancy and strategy. Story So Far: “Things are going well. I had an absolutely brilliant time with McKinsey at their EuroAcademy in Greece. It was really relaxed − no big sales pitch− we got to debate the future of the EU with a number of experts.” Since then Alick has been into the careers service to brush up his CV and is also considering booking a one-to-one appointment with an adviser who specialises in working in management consultancy. “I’m still researching employers and it takes up a lot of time. It’s been a while since I’ve had an interview so I’ll probably go for a practice at the careers service.” Advice for next Year’s Students: “While it would be nice to forget the degree and focus on the job hunt it’s important to try to get a good balance.”
Check online for agencies. You should expect to pay between 10 and 15% of your wage to the agency that placed you in the job. Health warning: Working more than 15 hours a week can seriously damage your studies.
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BIG COMPANY
NOT EVERYBODY IS SUITED TO EVERYONE IS HAPPY W
THE SIZE OF THE COMPANY MEANS I GET “AN OVERVIEW OF A RANGE OF JOBS AND GREAT TRAINING. ”
A BIG COMPANY YOU’VE GOT TO BE A “INGOOD COMMUNICATOR AND YOU NEED TO BE ABLE TO BUILD A GOOD NETWORK. ”
“After graduating I felt that I’d like to join a graduate programme which would offer a good training structure and
“In my year out before university I worked in an office for six months. I found it really dull and dreary until I found a job in sales, which I loved. It was with a small organisation called
would allow me to try a number of different roles. At Reckitt Benckiser the graduate programme is two years long. I’ve
Sound Marketing, which was made up of just 12 people. I found the work really dynamic and interesting. When I graduated, I
changed job roles a number of times because the company
took a sabbatical role as the student union vice-president. After
wants us to familiarise ourselves with the different roles within information systems. Moving around means that you get to
that, I decided that I needed to move to a larger organisation. I also felt that it was a real boost to have such a well known
know the whole department but you learn what you like doing. I’ve found I enjoy project management. There is a range of international opportunities and, in the
organisation as Sun Microsystems on my CV. The training at Sun U, which is the organisation’s training college, is second to none. I recently had a presentation skills
second year of the graduate programme, you usually move to another country. From the start, I’ve had the chance to travel around Europe and I am now based in Germany. It’s quite likely that I’ll be based here for my next role too. The training on the job is excellent and when you enter each assignment you have
course where they videoed me and then gave me feedback on the way I come across. Career progression is another plus point. There are many different roles that you can move into, as well as opportunities to work abroad. In a big company you’ve got to be a good communicator
an induction on the softer skills you need, such as negotiation. In such a big organisation you work with people from all around the world and some of the biggest challenges and rewards
and you’ve got to be able to build a good network. Without such a network of people to back you up you are dead in the water. But what you do need to know is who can get you that
come from working with all the different cultures. I had been concerned that in a global organisation you are far away from the decision-makers. In big companies, strategic decisions are made at national level. But at Reckitt Benckiser I
information fast. I was pleasantly surprised how open and flat the hierarchy is at Sun Microsystems. You also work in a team, which means that you get the interaction on offer at a small company whilst
feel I’m in a big organisation with a small business approach.”
enjoying the benefits of working in a large organisation.”
Andrea Genisio, 26 Course: 2:1 BSc European Business with Technology, University of Brighton/ University of Turin Employer: Reckitt Benckiser Job Role: Graduate systems analyst
Nathaniel Comer, 25 Course: Business Studies, University of Surrey Roehampton Employer: Sun Microsystems Job Role: Partner account manager
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FEATURE | SIZE MATTERS | CASE STUDIES
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SMALL COMPANY
ED TO WORKING IN A GIGANTIC GLOBAL CORPORATION. BUT THEN NOT PPY WORKING IN A SMALL BUSINESS. WHOSE COMPANY DO YOU PREFER? A COMPANY TO SAY, ‘GO ON, SHOW US EVERYONE MUCKS IN TOGETHER AND WANTS “FOR “ WHAT YOU CAN DO,’ IS AMAZING AND HAS TO DO THE BEST FOR THE PRODUCT, WHICH MADE ME SO MUCH MORE CONFIDENT. WE BELIEVE IS HUGELY VALUABLE. ” ” Bhavesh Desai, 21 Course: BEng Internet Engineering, Brunel University Employer: Mafkildea Job Role: Winner of the Shell ‘Step’ award for the ‘Most Enterprising Student’ in London
“I’m in my final year at university. Because I hadn’t taken a sandwich course and wanted to gain work experience over the summer I applied for a two-month placement through Step, which offers undergraduates project-based work within small to medium sized businesses. I spent eight weeks working for a company called Mafkildea, a small, solid wood floor supplier with six employees. They had initially asked for a student to do their website and help with the marketing. But when I showed up I saw that what they really needed was a new invoicing system: there was paper everywhere. So I decided to build the whole system from scratch. Because of the size of the company I was able to analyse it from top to bottom, make the system fit and really make a difference.
Libby Appelbee, 24 Course: English Studies, University of Stirling Employer: Cobra Beer Job Role: Marketing communications executive “As part of my four-year course, I studied in the USA at the University of California, Davies. During my year there I ended up working for the entertainment council, which was part of the student union at the university. It was then that I became interested in event management and public relations. After graduating, I knew that I wanted to work in the media so I took at job at News International working on the media sales team for News of the World. It was a great first job. I learnt all about newspaper production and was given training in marketing and sales. The attraction of joining such a huge company was that I thought there would be room to move around but that didn’t turn out to be true. After nine months I decided to return home and pick up some experience in PR. It was difficult because I knew it would mean a wage cut. I started training for my PR qualification with the Chartered Institute of Public Relations and managed to pick up a six-
I really enjoyed doing it and it’s helped the company. The time spent on administration has
month contract with the Health Protection Agency. When that contract ended, I returned to London and, after
fallen by 75 per cent and the financial saving is
applying for some jobs, I was offered roles at Citibank and
more than £16,000. The system I’ve built can take up to 400 per cent more as the business increases.
Cobra - a huge corporation, and a small company. Citibank had offered me £28,000 a year but at the end of the day I
For a company to say, ‘Go on, show us what you can do,’ is amazing and has made me so much more confident in my own abilities in anything
decided to take a £8,000 pay cut and take the job with Cobra. I just loved the atmosphere, which has got a real buzz to it. There are about 75 people in the whole organisation. Everyone
I undertake in the future. I’d had no previous hands-on experience. I’m absolutely sure that small businesses are where I’ll end up working in the future, hopefully running my own company.”
mucks in together and wants to do the best for the product, which we believe is hugely valuable. There is a lot of flexibility and it’s a very supportive environment. In a small company it can be harder to find funds for things that you want to do. With three new products there is plenty of work and pressure on the team. But we have big ideas and I’ve got faith in the company.”
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FEATURE | SIZE MATTERS | CASE STUDIES
NOTHING EASY ABOUT STARTING A “THERE’S CAREER IN LAW. WHETHER YOU ARE JUST FINISHING A LAW DEGREE OR WAKING UP... ” YOU WANT TO BE WRAPPED IN COTTON “IFWOOL THEN A SMALLER ORGANISATION PROBABLY ISN’T FOR YOU. ”
Natasha Coombes, 23 Degree: Business Studies, University of Surrey Roehampton Employer: Pareto Law Job Role: Senior graduate account manager “I first came across Pareto Law at a graduate fair in Manchester. I wanted to take a job in sales and Pareto is a UK recruitment company specialising in placing and training graduates for high-profile sales and marketing jobs.
THE FIRST FOUR MONTHS OF MY “FOR GRADUATE TRAINING PROGRAMME I WAS IN BANGALORE, INDIA. ” Suzie Prince, 25 Course: BSc Biological Sciences, Plant Science; MSc Biodiversity and Taxonomy of Plants, University of Edinburgh Employer: ThoughtWorks Job Role: Analyst
My mother is in sales and I thought that it would suit my personality, which is quite bubbly. But when I came for the interview with the founders of the company, Jonathan and Andy, I realised that there would be role for me in the organisation itself. I started off as a trainee account manager generating new leads by cold calling and recruiting graduates on assessment centres. But I didn’t particularly like the cold calling aspect of the job. I was able to raise my concerns and in response they started a new role for me, which was focused on running the assessment days and resourcing graduate roles. As part of my university course I’d had a placement with a big employer. Having worked with a big company and a small employer I definitely prefer working for a smaller organisation. There is a
“After graduation, I realised that lots of jobs directly related to my degree would mean remaining in academia, which was not for me. I wanted to work with a lot of people and realised that I liked doing analysis. I looked at management and IT consultancies and found ThoughtWorks. The company has about six offices globally, employing about 700 people. In the London UK office, there are about 150 people but most consultants work on the client sites in teams ranging from two to 20 people. The organisation already sounded different when I started researching it, and they seemed to be open to taking on
real team environment and everyone has to multitask, no-one really sticks to their job description.
people they could develop. The phone interview focused on what I wanted out of life and whether I’d be a good culture fit
You pick up a lot of skills as you go along but, as
with the organisation. What I feel here is that the company really
a training company, we are easily able to book ourselves on to training courses. I think people
knows who I am and that I matter. I wanted to work for a big employer because I felt it would offer me more opportunities in
are a bit more entrepreneurial in a small business. If you want to be wrapped in cotton wool then a smaller organisation probably isn’t
terms of travel, prestige and career promotion. But I also had in mind that I didn’t want to be a number and lost in layers of corporate hierarchy.
for you. You need to be really ambitious and driven to put across your ideas and see them through to the end. The best thing about the job is that it’s so varied and the work environment is brilliant.”
The first four months with the organisation were spent on the ThoughtWorks University. This is where the six international offices send their new graduates to be trained together. It was a life changing experience. There were 32 of us in all. The first four weeks were spent in intensive training followed by a 13-week project. The initial training provided me with a clear understanding of what my job is really like and the project placement gave me a chance to practice my new skills. Within the company I’ve now got a great international network as we keep in regular contact. That’s really important to me. In such a large company you could feel lost, but ThoughtWorks is good at making me feel like I’m important as an individual.” n
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(ELP US RAISE A BILLION MINUTES FOR GOOD CAUSES AND BOOST YOUR PROSPECTS 6OLUNTEERING IS A GREAT WAY TO DEVELOP SKILLS AND GET EXPERIENCE 4ELL US HOW MANY MINUTES YOU CAN GIVE AND WE LL SHOW YOU HOW WHERE AND WHEN TO GET STARTED 'ET ONLINE AT WWW YEAROFTHEVOLUNTEER ORG CALL OR TEXT 6/, AND YOUR NAME TO 7HATEVER YOUR PASSION MAKE IT COUNT IN
I want the right platform to launch my career... I want a professional qualification... I want to earn my value in the market place... I want to be mentored in my job... I want ownership... I want to apply my degree to my job...
You CAN have your cake and eat it! Knowledge Transfer Partnerships provide employment and personal development opportunities for talented graduates. Find out how Knowledge Transfer Partnerships can offer you a slice of the action.
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Helpline: 0870 190 2829
Knowledge Transfer Partnerships A DTI Business Support Solution
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FEATURE | PUBLIC SECTOR | CASE STUDIES
The public sector has long drawn graduates attracted to the idea of shaping lives and working for the communities around them. But make no mistake, there’s nothing woolly about working in the sector. You’ll need a business head, initiative and great communication skills. graduate fast-track schemes can offer great training and development but competition for places is stiff. Kate Hilpern profiles five graduates trying to make a difference. y Photographs by Ed Miller
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THE FINANCIAL SERVICES AUTHORITY Just four months into his first role on the Graduate Development Programme, Atul Shinh, 23, found himself training CEOs and managing directors up and down the country on how to do their job properly. “It was quite daunting at first because they’d been in the industry a lot longer than I had, but it was really good experience and I had a great deal of support from my colleagues,” he says. The early responsibility that the FSA promises graduates on its fast-stream programme was a major attraction for Atul, who graduated from Nottingham University in 2003 with a 2:1 in Maths and Economics. “I wasn’t sure what career path to take when I graduated, so I took a gap year,’ he admits. “Then I decided to apply to the Financial Services Authority (FSA), both because of this and because it offers a wide range of opportunities and experiences.” After a month’s induction, when he learned about the FSA and the industry in general, Atul secured his first placement – 11 months in the organisation’s Financial Promotions Department. “The work involved monitoring advertisements for products we regulate,” he explains. “I had to check that the rules and principles were followed correctly, and the consumer is not misled into buying or investing in a product which they cannot afford.” Having just started his second placement in the Markets Infrastructure Equity Team, Atul will be spending the next 12 months helping to make sure that the exchanges – including the London Stock Exchange and AIM – are running as they should. His next step will be a six-month external secondment, and although he doesn’t know where it will be, he knows it will be linked to his final placement. “So, if I do my final placement in the Fund Management Sector, it’s likely my secondment will be in a fund management firm,” he explains. “One of the best things about working here is the friendly atmosphere and the responsiveness of my senior colleagues,” says Atul.“The FSA is also keen that its people have a good work/life balance. I play for the graduate’s five-a-side football team, and I’m proud to say we recently won the organisation’s equivalent of the
The Financial Services Authority: The Lowdown The 60 graduates a year who are accepted on to the FSA’s two-and-a-halfyear Graduate Development Programme enjoy a unique insight into the UK financial system. The FSA aims to get a fair deal for UK consumers in their financial affairs and maintain London’s status as a world-leading international financial centre. As such, its chief role is to regulate the UK’s 25,000 financial companies - global investment banks, insurance companies and High Street banks – setting standards and monitoring their activities. If you’re fortunate enough to get through, you can expect a competitive starting salary of £27,500 and a varied career. The training will develop your understanding of the financial services industry and its customers, and strong analytical, communication and relationship-management skills, says Vivienne Man, graduate recruitment. You’ll need at least a 2:1 in any discipline, ideally one with some numerical and analytical content.
FA Cup – the FSA plate.”
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Among our many roles, we collect taxes from individuals and businesses across the UK – from fruit wholesalers and supermarkets to wine merchants (and drinkers)
What do you get if you cross a graduate, a bunch of grapes and a sniffer dog? A new breed of graduate opportunity. Talent Recruitment Programme Positions Nationwide Starting salary £20,040 (national) £22,430 (London) pay award pending In April this year, the Inland Revenue and HM Customs and Excise came together. With this cross-over of interests, our remit is now doubly vital. To protect society from tax evasion and illegal imports of alcohol, tobacco and drugs. And, of course, to contribute to the nation’s well-being by collecting £billions in legal tax and excise duty. This new organisation has created a new breed of opportunity for exceptionally able graduates. As well as helping shape a large and brand new government department, we need talented individuals like you to train for key Tax Inspector or management roles. You can take it as given that our programme will give you plenty back. Early responsibility. Thorough professional training. An intelligent approach to work-life balance. And an opportunity to make the cross-over from high-potential individual to highly qualified professional. Applications open 3rd October 2005, and close 8th December 2005. Find out more on www.hmrctalent.co.uk
Other responsibilities include protecting the UK’s frontiers from the illegal import of drugs and explosive materials
HMRC welcomes applications from people of every kind of background, so that our own workforce mirrors the community we serve.
FEATURE | PUBLIC SECTOR | CASE STUDIES
THE CIVIL SERVICE THE Civil Service: The Lowdown You’d be hard pushed to find any single employer that offers the breadth of jobs that the Civil Service does. That’s why its Fast Stream programme welcomes a range of degree backgrounds and is itself divided into four separate schemes. There is the Graduate Fast Stream and three specialist schemes - the Economist’s Fast Stream, the Statistician’s Fast Stream and GCHQ (Government Communications Headquarters). The minimum grade required is a 2:2 and there is no correlation of firsts getting through more easily than lower grades. “Around 500 graduates are accepted annually,” says Sue Nickson, deputy head of marketing. “Around 300 of those go into Graduate Fast Stream.” The application process is very rigorous, she says. “But people who get through say they enjoy the early responsibility and the diverse and exciting nature of their work.”
It was when Spencer Mahony, 27, was teaching in rural Japan in his gap year that he first had some contact with the UK foreign office. “I thought, ‘Wow, that seems like a great lifestyle,” he recalls. “I’d always been interested in politics, and I heard there was this fantastic training programme within the Civil Service where you can change jobs all the time. So I decided to apply, although I never thought I’d get in.” He was wrong. “The assessment process was hard, but really enjoyable,” admits Spencer, who
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with a minister “ wis orking a dream job. I meet the people he meets and travel everywhere, including overseas
”
Some of his most memorable experiences were taking a Bill through Parliament and attending
gained a 2:1 in Journalism, Politics and Business from Sheffield Hallam University in 1999.
meetings at Number 10. But the best was still yet to come, with Spencer’s
“I learned a lot about myself. Even if you don’t
favourite role being his third and current one as
get on, it’s definitely worth applying just because of that,” he says. The next step was being sent some
Private Secretary to Rt Hon Alan Johnson, Secretary of State for Trade and Industry.
job descriptions, from which he chose his first role at the DTI, dealing with employment law. “Even in the first week, I was in meetings with
“It’s a dream job. I get to meet the people he meets. I get to read and check all the papers he has. I go with him wherever he goes, including
trade unions and the CBI and the next thing I knew, I was off on the Eurostar to Brussels, sitting around tables with all the plaques of the countries, watching the UK government give its employment proposals,” he says.
overseas and to the House when he is speaking.” Spencer has been impressed with the support and training he’s received and is looking forward to his next post, this time with promotion.
Spencer’s next placement involved working with agencies that tackle imbalances between regions. “The bit I most enjoyed there was managing a large MORI national poll. I had to see if people liked an idea, check ministers were happy with it, get people to agree to it, go out and run a tender and manage the entire project, including planning the results to the media,” he says.
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No NAO. No news. Without the NAO’s audits and reports into public spending, real news stories would be a bit thinner on the ground. Every day, we’re mentioned in newspapers and on TV about all kinds of stories connected to public spending. Because that’s what we do: ensure that around £800bn a year is spent wisely. If the range and scale of our work surprises you, so will the opportunities. We’re one of the few public sector organisations to offer graduates ICAEW Accountancy training, with a three-year professional training programme that’s built around annual block release periods.
When you get here, you’ll realise just how supportive the culture is. So much so, that by the end of your training, you’re quite likely to have seen an entire audit through to completion. Your starting salary will be £23,369, and benefits include a final salary pension scheme and free life assurance. Moreover, our London office has a subsidised staff restaurant and a gym. Find out more at
www.nao.org.uk/graduates We aim to reflect the diversity of the public we serve.
FEATURE | PUBLIC SECTOR | CASE STUDIES
LOCAL GOVERNMENT Having recently completed the National Graduate Development Programme, Petra Smith, 27, is already in the prestigious role of Catford Town Centre manager, a job in which she is expected to increase the economic viability of the area. “It’s incredibly varied,’ she says. “The kinds of things I get involved in are security measures, environmental measures and physical regeneration.”
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so satisfying to “ It’s actually see how people benefit from my work ”
She loves seeing the difference her work makes to the streets. She comments, “It’s so satisfying to actually see how businesses and visitors benefit from it.” Petra knew she wanted to apply her geography degree in the workplace, preferably in urban management. But having got a 2:1 from Newcastle University in 1999, she also knew she wanted some time out first. After three years of teaching English in Japan, she returned to do an MSc in Cities, Space and Society, and it was while she was there that she noticed an ad for the graduate scheme. “I liked the idea of working in the public sector. It’s that corny old thing of wanting to make a difference,” she says. In her first year, Petra was employed as a project officer, and was placed in three different departments across the council. “A typical project involved auditing all the sports facilities across the borough and making suggestions for future investment, whilst another involved me setting up the whole scheme for the council to licence shops to have displays on the pavement outside their shops.” In her second year, Petra undertook several projects at once. “One was a homeless temporary accommodation review. That was hard because my report wasn’t good news for managers, but it was good experience.” Another project involved helping the council achieve ‘fair trade borough’ status. “I worked with local businesses to stock Fairtrade products,” she says. The studying element of the graduate programme consisted of four residential training courses over four years, covering soft management skills, as well as six residential modules for the graduate diploma in local government management. “It was so useful being able to apply what we learned in practice immediately,” she recalls. Equally helpful was having an internal and external mentor, she says. “When I was looking for jobs towards the end of the programme, my external mentor was brilliant at helping me focus on identifying my skills and working out what I really wanted to do.”
Local Government: The Lowdown Most people who apply to the National Graduate Development programme have a strong social conscience, says Eleanor Gasse, who is responsible for graduate recruitment and marketing of the programme. With local government being given increased control over what happens in their boroughs, you’ll get the chance to bring about genuine change in society. Meanwhile, the rewards of the two-year training programme include an award-winning mentoring scheme and the bespoke postgraduate diploma that all trainees complete in local government management. The remaining two components of the programme are national training and a core placement with a ‘host’ authority. There are two intakes of 50 graduates – one in spring and one in autumn. You can have any degree discipline, but you will need a minimum of a 2:1. Experience of working in the voluntary, charity or public sector will help your application.
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).4%2.!4)/.!,
2!)3% 9/52 #!2%%2 02/30%#43 3EEKING A UNIQUELY CHALLENGING AND REWARDING PROFESSION MEMBERSHIP OF THE TEAM THAT GUIDES BOARD DECISION MAKING A CAREER THAT DEMANDS A SPECIALIST´S KNOWLEDGE ACROSS BUSINESS DISCIPLINES WHERE NO DAY IS THE SAME A POSITION THAT HAS A DEFINING INFLUENCE ON CORPORATE PERFORMANCE AND THAT IS RECOGNISED AS A DIRECT ROUTE TO THE TOP 9OU´VE FOUND IT WITH THE ROLE OF THE #HARTERED 3ECRETARY #HARTERED 3ECRETARIES ARE BOARD LEVEL PROFESSIONALS CHARGED WITH ENSURING THE SMOOTH RUNNING OF BUSINESS 1UALIFIED IN CORPORATE LAW FINANCE GOVERNANCE COMPANY SECRETARYSHIP AND FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT #HARTERED 3ECRETARIES ARE INDISPENSABLE ASSETS 4HEIR KEEN KNOWLEDGE OF BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS INFLUENCES STRATEGIC PLANNING 4HEY´RE THE PRIMARY SOURCE OF BOARD COUNSEL ON BUSINESS CONDUCT 4HEY LIAISE WITH NON EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS 4HEY DIRECT PENSION AND SHAREHOLDER SCHEMES 4HEY UPHOLD THE HIGHEST VALUE OF ETHICS #HARTERED 3ECRETARIES´ SKILLS OPEN OPPORTUNITIES TO WORK ACROSS ALL SECTORS &OR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT 4HE )NSTITUTE OF #HARTERED 3ECRETARIES AND !DMINISTRATORS )#3! 0ARK #RESCENT Ã&#x20AC; ,ONDON Ã&#x20AC; 7 " !( 4ELEPHONE Ã&#x20AC; &AX % MAIL INFO ICSA CO UK Ã&#x20AC; 7EBSITE WWW ICSA ORG UK
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We are recruiting for several prestigious clients with offices across the entire UK. Excellent career opportunities are available for graduates in:
â&#x20AC;¢ IT & Electronics â&#x20AC;¢ Mechanical & Electrical Engineering â&#x20AC;¢ Automotive, Aerospace & Rail Engineering â&#x20AC;¢ Civil & Structural Engineering â&#x20AC;¢ Environmental & Water Engineering â&#x20AC;¢ Chemical & Process Engineering â&#x20AC;¢ Naval Architecture & Offshore Engineering â&#x20AC;¢ Technical Sales â&#x20AC;¢ Science â&#x20AC;¢ Human Resources If you have graduated already, or will be graduating this year, please email your CV to our Graduate Team, or call them now on 01489 898956 for an informal discussion about our vacancies.
specialists in technical recruitment e: graduatejobs@matchtech.com w: www.matchtech.com/graduates t: 01489 898956
graduate careers for a technical world
1450 Parkway, Solent Business Park, Fareham. PO15 7AF
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FEATURE | PUBLIC SECTOR | CASE STUDIES
THE NHS “I think some people perceive finance managers in the public sector as sitting in a box room, telling the people that work in the organisation not to spend any more money. But that couldn’t be further from the truth,” says Roshan Patel, 27, financial management trainee at the NHS. “I get to advise managers in the trust about how to develop and streamline the service, with the knowledge that ultimately I’ll be helping to make hospitals run more smoothly. That is very rewarding,” he says. Having gained a 2:1 in Chemical Engineering from the University of Bath in 2001, Roshan decided he wanted to go on a fast-track graduate scheme
“
I ’m helping hospitals run more smoothly. It’s very rewarding
”
Now in his penultimate month of the scheme, he works at Hillingdon Hospital Trust, where he is divisional accountant for ambulatory care, diagnostics and therapy. “I am responsible for providing finance management to all the managers in the division, and I have line management responsibility for a management accountant who works for me. With a budget of just under £25m, which is almost one-fifth of the trust’s entire expenditure, it is
that would expose him to management and finance, as well as gain a professional qualification. The recruitment process is renowned for being so
a considerable amount of responsibility.” What he most enjoys is communicating with these individuals to develop proposals for the
tough that even to get through to the interview stage is an achievement. “Recently, I was involved in the assessment of new graduates and, given the number of applications we got, I realised what a feat it is to
future of the trust, as well as talking to frontline staff so he can relate their work back to his. “One of the main reasons I chose the NHS is because it’s not about making profit but improving people’s lives,” he says.
get past the first stage,” he says. Roshan was shocked when he was accepted. “I felt I’d done well on some assessments and not so well on others,” he admits. Having joined the scheme in 2002 after travelling for a few months he gained experience in different roles and departments such as financial management accounting, internal audit and capital accounting.
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The NHS: The Lowdown Aside from the financial scheme, which took on 65 graduates this year, the NHS accepted 90 people on to its general training scheme and 28 to its human resources scheme. All three fast track you to a management position. “We’re very flexible about degree subjects and we ask for a 2:2 or above,” says Claire Maguire, programme leader. “We’re very open about our competency framework.” Of the finance scheme, which lasts 40 months, she says, “It’s the longest because it includes chartered accountancy exams; the others both last 24 months. Each trainee will get to be part of at least two or three NHS organisations. For the general scheme, there is an elective. It’s an opportunity to build skills in a completely different area. Many people spend it in places like Africa or Australia.”
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GRADUATES
TO MAKE EVERY MINUTE OF EVERY DAY WORK FOR MILLIONS OF PEOPLE?
It’s not. Because that’s what we do. We are the number one IT service provider in the UK outsourcing market. We have revenues of more than $20 billion around the world. We manage more than 50,000 servers and support more than 2.5 million desktops globally. We process more than one billion health claims. And we manage more than 2 billion transactions annually in 41 languages. We make technology work for our clients around the world, helping them to improve their business performance and drive their growth. Now you can too. We’re looking for graduates with an active interest in IT, to do a real job now or join our graduate programme in the coming months. www.grads.eds.co.uk
FEATURE | PUBLIC SECTOR | CASE STUDIES
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are in the “ We frontline of the fight against terrorism
”
THE POLICE Greenwich University graduate Chris Dreyfuss knows what it’s like to be in the frontline of fighting terrorism. Following the July 7 suicide bomb attacks in London earlier this year, the 27-year-old was appointed head of three counter-terrorism teams for the British Transport Police. It’s this level of early responsibility and rapid promotion that graduates are offered on the Police High Potential Development scheme (HPD). The scheme, which is in its third year, aims to recruit and develop graduates to become the future leaders of the police service.
he didn’t find the work satisfying. In his own time he undertook a part-time criminal law course and was also volunteering four hours a week as a special constable. “I’d always been interested in the police and while working as a special constable I found that was what I really enjoyed,” he says. Chris decided to apply to join the police and, after passing several exams, including a physical, was offered a job. In his current role the teams he leads are responsible for counter-terrorism activities at railway stations in the southeast of England, from conducting random searches of passengers to
“Normally, when you join the police you sign up to a certain role for a couple of years,” explains Chris. “The difference with HPD is that you will only spend six to nine months in each post and get rapidly moved around different roles. This
intelligence gathering. Although he’s younger than many of the officers in his team, in terms of service and age, Chris says he hasn’t encountered any negative attitudes. “I’m very clear as to what my role is when I am leading the team and I tell them
means you stand out within the organisation and get noticed.” Since joining the scheme three years ago Chris has held a number of roles in the force, from being on the beat as a patrol officer to working in CID as
what I will expect of them and what they can expect from me,” he says. “In this job you can never predict what will happen, you don’t know what arrests you might make or where they will lead. Much has changed
a detective. Unsurprisingly, access to the scheme is tough and only 300 graduates a year are recruited. Chris believes that you have to have real
since the bombings and we are now policing in a very different environment.” n
passion for the job and a desire to make a difference to society. After graduating with a 2:1 in Computing and Business, Chris worked for two years as an IT consultant, but despite the good pay and benefits,
High Potential Development: The lowdown The HPD scheme is no easy ride and only a few applicants a year make the grade. The programme gives officers the chance to progress through the ranks taking on some of the biggest policing assignments facing society. Officers are offered an individually tailored development programme and can obtain sponsorship of up to £6,000 for ongoing education. Chris recently completed a post graduate certificate in forensic science. You can apply for HPD when you try for standard entry into the police. HPD selection involves two written tests under examination conditions and a two-day assessment centre. “The scheme offers you a huge number of opportunities,” says Chris. “It’s up to you to make the most of them.”
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FEATURE | RETAIL | CASE STUDIES
What’s in store?
Many graduates are put off the thought of working in retail. But Lucy Jolin finds that the sector offers a wide range of careers in a fast paced environment. y Photographs by Yang Ou
T
hese days, retail isn’t just about stacking shelves or serving at
customer-facing, but you’ll need to lead by example and get on
a checkout. It’s a vast industry with numerous careers available, from IT to merchandising and marketing, to name a few. It’s also a huge part of the UK’s business landscape. According to the British Retail Consortium, 11 per cent of all enterprises in this country are retailers. Last year, retail sales were approximately £246 billion. And the industry employs one in nine of the total UK workforce - that’s around 2.9 million people. That landscape is constantly evolving as online shopping accounts for more and more of the total consumer spend, and traditional bricks and mortar businesses have to learn to innovate to survive. “Things change all the time,” says Michael Nathan, recruitment manager for John Lewis. “Retail is the most dynamic and the most responsive industry to what the customer and the economy dictate. You’ve got to think on your feet. That could be on a small scale, managing a department, or, on a bigger scale,
with many different people within your organisation.” Asda seeks those with a passion for retail, says Judith. “But we also want people with leadership skills who are good team workers. They need to be innovative and pick up new ideas quickly.” When applying to John Lewis, Michael says: “Experience of extra-curricular leadership and teamwork stand out for me when I look at an application form. It doesn’t have to be work experience. It can be any area where a graduate has gone out and got involved in leading and working in teams, either in work or in their spare time. That might include running university societies or voluntary work with groups in the community. Work experience where there’s real evidence of responsibility is great, but just working in a shop isn’t necessarily an indicator that someone has leadership potential.” There are plenty of myths floating around about those who work within retail. “Some see retail as a ‘waste’ of a degree,” says Terry. “But it has great promotion prospects and the money’s not
expanding your business and dealing with the competition. But if you love people, and you love seeing the results of your work in a very short space of time, retail could be the career for you.” Fiona Stratford, business learning director at the Institute of Grocery Distribution (IGD), says that retail stretches far beyond the shop floor. “There are opportunities from farming with the Coop to manufacturing with Procter & Gamble,” she observes. “The variety and vibrancy of the roles within the industry is enormous.” This variety, says Judith Thomas, resourcing manager at Asda, allows career flexibility. “You might start on a retail management scheme and end up running your own store, but your next step might be on a divisional team looking at how other stores are doing. Or it might be working as a buyer, having sold the goods in
bad either. There’s also the idea that you’re in the shop seven days a week. But generally if you work weekends you will have days off during the week in lieu, and I don’t think the hours are worse than a demanding role in any other sector.” Judith says she constantly hears misconceptions about retail being all about shelf-stacking. “Obviously the shop floor is the biggest part of what we’re about,” she says.“But we have a huge variety of roles available, from finance to IT.” The ups and downs of the high street might make retail seem an unstable career choice. But Terry is optimistic. “Many wellknown stores are reporting difficult trading conditions,” he says.
store and knowing what works and what doesn’t.” So what qualities do you need to succeed in this fast-paced environment? It’s an accessible industry for many graduates, ac-
“But I don’t get the sense that the big players are cutting down on their management staff. They will always need good managers for when things do pick up again.”
cording to Terry Jones of the Association of Graduate Careers Advisory Service (AGCAS).“You don’t always need technical skills or specialist degrees,” he says. “What you do need are good interpersonal skills, communication skills, and the ability to re-
It’s also worth noting that supermarkets seem to have bucked the gloomy trend. Confederation of British Industry figures for September 2005 showed the fastest year-on-year sales decline in retail for 22 years but grocery and specialist food sectors remained on course.
spond quickly. As a graduate, your role may not always be
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FEATURE | RETAIL | CASE STUDIES
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DEDICATED FOLLOWER OF FASHION Name: Kerry Byrne Age: 26 Degree: Business and
and profitability in Spain, Gibraltar, Malta, Slovenia and Germany. My role is to have
Marketing Management, Oxford Brookes University, 2001(2:1) Currently: Assistant
the right stock in the right place at the right time. Internationally, this involves taking into account anything from the
merchandiser at Evans International, Arcadia Group Salary: Starting salary for
climate to religious festivals and the economy of the country. It’s crucial to develop
merchandising assistant is currently £16,800 “I travelled after university and then got stuck in a temp job. I wanted to work in fashion, and an agency suggested
a good understanding of the market so I visited my stores in Slovenia and Spain this year, which was great. “In retail, you need to consider your customer’s point of view. You should also have
merchandising, which sounded perfect. I knew about Arcadia through TopShop as I shopped there and they also had a very good reputation at my university for training. “My first position was a merchandising admin assistant and I was then promoted to assistant merchandiser. I’m responsible for driving sales
an interest in what’s happening on the high street and be a good team player because you’re working with so many people. Eventually, I want to become a merchandiser within the international structure. At Arcadia we have a structure so we always know our goals - that helps to keep us motivated!”
kerry byrne, assistant fashion merchandiser for evans international, Arcadia group
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D L U O C WHAT 1 . O N S ’ K U E H T R E L I A T E R Y L B I S S PO OFFER ? S E T A U GRAD GRADUATE SCHEME Exposure. Development. Networking. International career options. Basically, the list goes on and on. There are high-profile graduate opportunities within every area of our cutting-edge global business, from IT, Corporate Purchasing and Property to Tesco.com, Marketing, Corporate and Legal Affairs, Commercial and our Research and Analysis department. If you think we’re just a supermarket, there’s so much that you’re missing. Find out more at www.tesco.com/debut
Tesco is an equal opportunities employer.
www.tesco.com/debut
FEATURE | RETAIL | CASE STUDIES
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SELLING THE SUPERBRANDS
“
from a marketing perspective, if you don’t understand how your concepts are implemented in store, and how they affect people, it’s hard to get respect for your ideas...
”
CASHING IN Name: Samantha Thorne Age: 26
“I’m on the generalist executive management
Degree: Business Studies, Stirling University, 2002 (2:1)
training programme that takes you to senior manager level.
Currently: Finishing graduate
Name: Dan Gray Age: 24 Degree: Business Studies,
Yourself, and now I’m in supply chain, learning how the marketing we put in
Sheffield University, 2002 (2:1) Currently: Graduate placement in supply chain
place affects supply and demand planning. “I’ve got one more
department, Sainsbury’s Salary: Started on £21,500, now on £22,000
placement to go before I get a promotion to a permanent role. I don’t think degree subject matters in retail but
“I first worked for Sainsbury’s behind the checkout when I was 16 and progressed
some experience is crucial. “From a marketing perspective, if you don’t
to assistant manager on the checkout department for a summer. “I knew I wanted to work in retail and I liked Sainsbury’s as a company. Everyone goes to
understand how your marketing concepts are implemented in store and how they affect people in stores it’s hard to get respect for your ideas and to realise their limitations.
supermarkets, so when you launch a brand, it touches so many people. “After university, I got a place on the graduate trainee marketing programme. It covers all bases, so I’ve been in-store, on the online team, on health brands such as Be Good To
“But for me, the joy of retail is mainly working with so many different teams. There are so many stakeholders involved in launching an internal brand. “In the future I would love to own my own brand - and I’d also love to market the Olympics in six years time!”
“I’ve worked in local
programme, then taking up role as Premier Manager,
branches and head office. I spent seven weeks at HSBC’s
HSBC Salary: Started on £23,000, currently on £24,250
training facility, which was fantastic - I met staff there from all over the world. I’m shortly
“I started working in retail at WHSmith when I was 15, then worked for Safeways and Dixons. After university, I joined
going to take up a position as a manager on our premier proposition, looking after our high net worth customers. “It’s crucial to be a people
a large retail company as a graduate trainee but felt my career path was limited. I
person on the retail side of banking. Things have changed from the old days when the
applied to HSBC as it had more opportunities. I love retail but here you can do commercial or corporate banking, or work
bank manager was very stern - now managers are expected to be out serving the customers as much as the rest
in head office.
of the staff.” n
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We’ll take your talents further The School of Management is a leading provider of internationally recognised postgraduate vocational management degrees in the specialist fields of hospitality, tourism, food, retail and health care management. We also offer a well established and highly regarded MBA, a variety of postgraduate programmes across a range of broader business disciplines and a one-year Master Entry Programme (MEP) for those who wish to gain a postgraduate qualification but require extra study to meet the entry requirements.
Programmes include: MEP MBA MSc in Financial Services Management MSc in Food Management MSc in Health Care Management MSc in Human Resource Management MSc in International Business Management MSc in International Hotel Management MSc in International Marketing Management
MSc in Management MSc in Marketing Management MSc in Retail Management MSc in Tourism Development MSc in Tourism Management MSc in Tourism Marketing
Please see our website for teaching materials included with these programmes School of Management University of Surrey Guildford GU2 7XH Tel: 01483 689347 Email: som@surrey.ac.uk www.som.surrey.ac.uk 114386_Retailchoice_graduate_DR_Page 1
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Kenny Hay, Mechanical Engineer with Wood Group Engineering
Wood Group www.woodgroup.com
Engineering Graduates
Disciplines We are looking to recruit graduates from the following disciplines: Asset Management Mechanical Engineering Electrical / Instrumentation Engineering Process / Chemical Engineering Structural / Civil Engineering Safety & Environmental Engineering Locations Headquarters - Aberdeen International - 36 countries Application Details Please send your CV and covering letter to: Graduate Adviser, Wood Group, John Wood House, Greenwell Road, East Tullos, Aberdeen, AB12 3AX Tel: +44 (0)1224 851311 Fax: +44 (0)1224 851291 Email: graduate.adviser@woodgroup.com Please quote reference ‘realworld’ on all applications. Closing Date Closing date for all applications: 9th December 2005.
Where do YOU want to be in 4 years time? Take Kenny Hay, a Mechanical Engineer working towards chartered status with Wood Group Engineering in Aberdeen - “I chose to join Wood Group because they take a keen interest in developing graduates, are entrepreneurial, plus they are growing internationally which provides increasing opportunities for graduates to work overseas through one of the Group’s exchange programmes. I have worked within a number of project teams and in a variety of both technical and non-technical roles. On completion of the four year development programme, I will be in an excellent position to decide which area I want to specialise in.” Wood Group has developed a well respected programme of recruiting graduate engineers. We look for people who have demonstrated a high level of academic achievement, complemented by practical ability and the potential to handle early responsibility. At Wood Group we set high standards for our graduate engineers but we provide the right rewards. Throughout your development, our mentors will ensure that you receive a wide variety of project opportunities and hands-on experience. Dynamic and entrepreneurial, Wood Group is an international energy services company employing more than 14,000 people in 36 countries. Our clients include the major oil & gas companies around the world, BP, Shell, TOTAL, Talisman, Amerada Hess plus some of the largest power generation companies such as RWE, E-ON, ENEL, Saudi Electricity Company and Calpine. If you have the right qualities, plus the drive and enthusiasm, we look forward to hearing from you.
www.woodgroup.com
RW
FEATURE | ENGINEERING | CASE STUDIES
Standing
on THE
Shoulders of Giants
History is full of the names of long gone engineers who have changed the shape of our world. But that doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean that chances to invent and innovate are dead. Far from it. Driving the whole sector is the desire to create and improve, more so now than ever befor. Read on.
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FEATURE | ENGINEERING | CASE STUDIES
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T
he industrial age of engineering is filled
with names that most would recognise. Isambard Kingdom Brunel, Alexander Graham Bell, Thomas Edison, Michael Faraday, Henry Ford and James Watt are but a few. These were the giants of engineering who pioneered new techniques and thinking to create things of awe-inspiring form and groundbreaking function. But can you pinpoint the achievements of Grace Murray Hopper, Tony Fadell, Russell Ohl, Jack Kilby, Barbara Johnson and Ken Kutaragi? These are the first computer compiler; the iPod creator; the engineer behind the solar power cell; the maker of the integrated circuit; the only female aeronautical engineer on the NASA moon landing team and the man behind the Sony PlayStation. Engineering has become so much a part of the fabric of everyday life that form seems to have overtaken function in the fame stakes. Think about everything you did before you read this article, quite possibly nothing extraordinary, but these activities would be far from routine if it was not for the skill of professional engineers. From the power engineer who supplies light and hot water, the electrical engineer designing household gadgets to the civil and mechanical engineer who builds, maintains and improves our urban environment, professional engineers and engineering continue to underpin wealth creation. They might be the unsung heroes as architects and designers take the media spotlight, but the opportunities for graduates with engineering degrees are enormous. The word ‘engineer’ stems from the same Latin route as ‘ingenuity’ and as it implies, is a career immersed in challenge, motivation, innovation and creativity.
y Words by
y y
Anil Kumar, director of education and policy at the Engineering and Technology Board Case Studies by Rachel Alembakis Photographs by UPPA
thomas macneish, graduate engineer at siemens power transmission and distribution
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FEATURE | ENGINEERING | CASE STUDIES
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The established sectors of mechanical, electrical, civil, electronic, chemical, aeronautical transport, telecoms and acoustical engineering continue to thrive but the daily experience of today’s engineers overlaps
“Being on a scheme where you frequently change jobs is an excellent way to gain a more rounded view of the organisation,” says Thomas Macneish, a graduate engineer at Siemens Power Transmission and Distribution. “You are encouraged to have an open mind about which role you’d like to play.”
the worlds of science and technology. The diversity of science and engineering means that whatever your interests in film, TV, music, gadgets, travel, health, sport, design or environment there is an engineering role to match and these jobs frequently provide the opportunity to work at the very cutting edge of thought and innovation. Opportunities for graduates are as varied as they are challenging. Engineers are relied upon to deliver solutions to some of the most strategically important challenges of the future. It is engineers working with teams of academics, policymakers, manufacturers, business and industry who are trying to tackle the ‘energy gap’. Almost all modern engineering and science takes place within closely knit teams of professionals, which provides graduates with the chance to gain experience and exposure within finance, marketing, logistics and production. In fact, science and engineering are international languages and opportunities are available worldwide. Just less than half of UK engineering and technology graduates are directly employed in the field and the profession is the third highest earning behind lawyers and doctors. A striking feature of recent data from the Higher Education Statistics Agency report “First Destinations” found that six of the top
It’s electric: Graduate schemes in the power industry
“
working within the part of the business dealing with high-voltage projects. “To
sure that you build a good network of people to contact for information or help,”
begin with it was a bit daunting to start
advises Thomas.
immediately as part of a project team but it had the effect of making you realise you
We say: Power engineers are in demand
The diversity of science and engineering means there is an opportunity to work at the cutting edge of thought and innovation...
The Job: Thomas MacNeish, 29, joined Siemens Power Transmission and Distribution (PT&D) in October 2004 after graduating from Herriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, with a 2:1 BEng in Electrical and Electronic Engineering. He’s halfway through a two-year rotational programme where he’ll work in different departments before choosing a permanent role. Following an orientation project, Thomas began his first placement as part of a team
The challenges: Working for a large organisation can mean it’s sometimes hard to know who to contact when you need specific information. “You have to make
Why apply? Working for the third largest
at the moment so it’s worth considering whether this would be a career for you. You’d need to consider choosing the power
12 graduate salaries are attributed to those
electrical engineering company in the world has its advantages when it comes to flexibility and diversity, says Thomas. “I applied because of the chance to join a recognised training programme that
modules in the third or fourth year of your course. Much of the work in this industry is project based so demonstrating to employers that you can work as part of a team is essential. “Employers are looking
with engineering degrees. So take some time to explore the career options open to you as an engineering
would give me the chance to experience almost every aspect of the business. It was particularly good for me as after leaving
for people who can show they work well with other people rather than requiring a lot of integration,” says Thomas. Work
graduate before you leap on to the ladder. You might be standing on the shoulders of giants but there is every opportunity for your name to be written in the history books of
university I was unsure which role would best suit me within the power industry.” What gets him out of bed? Because the
experience is also another desirable, he says. “With hindsight I’d have definitely gone for a summer placement during my university course if I’d know how important
tomorrow. n
course is recognised by the Institution of
work experience is to employers.”
”
are part of something very real,” he says.
Electrical Engineers (IEE) it will be accepted as part of the portfolio of evidence put forward to the IEE when Thomas applies for chartership. “This scheme is a really great opportunity to gain chartered status,” says Thomas. “In terms of my personal development it has also been excellent. For example I’m to travel to Germany to view projects being undertaken there.”
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m
is for millimetre wave camera M is for maintaining airline safety through prevention not cure. M is for a metaphorical tiger - let one loose on a plane and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got a massive safety risk. But M is not for mitigating this risk by mollifying the stripy mammoth with an in-flight menu of grrrreat breakfast cereal. M is making sure that a tiger never gets on-board. And M is for the Millimetre Wave Camera, which helps airport security do exactly the same thing with concealed weapons. If you like the idea of making the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most complex science and engineering problems look simple, visit www.QinetiQ.com/careers E is for exceptional. G is for graduates. Q is for QinetiQ.
we make it look simple
QinetiQ makes the world’s most complex problems look simple. Combining the intelligence, imagination and energy of some of the world's leading research scientists, we make the impossible an everyday reality across all walks of life. A world-renowned defence and security technology company, with a culture inspired by groundbreaking research, we deliver commercial value from science. That means taking the research rigour and forward thinking required in the defence world and bringing it to the widest possible range of civil projects. So we offer a similarly broad range of careers covering operational analysis, scientific research, development, test and evaluation and project management - in fields ranging from media to healthcare, aerospace to security and telecoms to transport. Our proud heritage includes inventing the jet engine, thermal imaging, LCD, flat panel speakers and carbon fibre. No wonder we’re a world leader in the creation and application of technology.
m
More talent QinetiQ is a unique organisation seeking around 300 extraordinary new people a year. We look for proactive, analytical, forward-thinking graduates from most science, engineering, IT and numerate disciplines. People with the commercial instinct, questioning mind and passion to plot their own development and take full advantage of our organisation. More quality We offer a good salary and benefits package combined with real quality of life the chance to do fascinating work in a pleasant environment. More training We give our people the freedom, resources and training they need to push the boundaries of existing knowledge, play with high-concept science and inspire one another. We’ll also offer you the chance to work alongside some of the leading people in your field.
is for millimetre wave camera
In addition to our core graduate development programme, there is the potential to attend conferences, undertake secondments and, where appropriate, we’ll give you support for further qualifications such as Chartered status, an MSc, or PhD. Whether you want to follow a technical path or take a business or project management route, you'll be surrounded by opportunities. But it will be up to you to take them. More information For a fuller picture of QinetiQ and to apply online to our all-year-round recruitment programme, visit www.QinetiQ.com/careers
M is for maintaining airline safety through prevention not cure. M is for a metaphorical tiger - let one loose on a plane and you’ve got a massive safety risk. But M is not for mitigating this risk by mollifying the stripy mammoth with an in-flight menu of grrrreat breakfast cereal. M is making sure that a tiger never gets on-board. And M is for the Millimetre Wave Camera, which helps airport security do exactly the same thing with concealed weapons. If you like the idea of making the world’s most complex science and engineering problems look simple, visit www.QinetiQ.com/careers E is for exceptional. G is for graduates. Q is for QinetiQ.
we make it look simple
we make it look simple
BUSINESS ANALYSIS/CONSULTANCY CONTRACTING & PROCUREMENT FINANCE HUMAN RESOURCES INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SALES & MARKETING SUPPLY & DISTRIBUTION TRADING GEOLOGY/GEOPHYSICS PETROPHYSICS PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY PRODUCT/PROCESS RESEARCH
With the wind behind you and open
Right from the start, you’ll be making
space ahead, there’s no limit to the
a valuable contribution to exciting
possible directions your career could
projects. Your ideas will be taken on
take. And at Shell, we’ll support you all the way.
board, your talent recognised and achievements rewarded.
Our approach is collaborative – matching our business needs with your
So if you want to achieve more in your
training needs, our global opportunities
career, get together with Shell. You can make your online application right
with your career aspirations. We aim
now – just visit our career website.
to build a win-win partnership between
Shell is an Equal Opportunity Employer
you and Shell.
ENGINEERING: RESERVOIR/PETROLEUM WELL PRODUCTION PROCESS ASSET MAINTENANCE PROJECT/FACILITIES DISCIPLINE
Explore it
There’s a wider world out there
www.shell.com/careers
FEATURE | ENGINEERING | CASE STUDIES
RW
“If you wanted to find out everything about how to build a spacecraft, this is it,” says Andy Pilbeam, a mechanical engineer with EADS Astrium, the prime contractor for the European Space Agency’s fourth earth explorer mission, Aeolus. Star sailor: Working in the space industry The job: Andy Pilbeam, 28, works on the mechanical engineering aspect of the Assembly, Integration and Test (AIT) department at EADS Astrium’s Stevenage plant. The spacecraft they are building will launch a satellite equipped with a laser that will ultimately serve to map the Earth’s winds. Why apply? Andy, who graduated in 2001 from Nottingham Trent University, says that he applied to a variety of positions in the engineering field during the autumn of his final year. “I didn’t know what I wanted to do, even while I was getting my degree,” he says. “That’s why I applied to everything, to see what was out there. Astrium got back in touch to say they’re interested. I joined as a stress engineer to get my foot in the door to see what that was like.” After concluding that being a stress engineer wasn’t for him, Andy gravitated to the AIT team in 2003. What gets him out of bed? The constant changes to his responsibilities. “As the project develops and [goes through] different build stages, you actually find your job evolves as well,” Andy explains. The challenges? “This role extends into a lot more personal areas than I thought it would do. Being away for a long time, you’re also looking after a lot of people and constantly having to worry about
“
UNIVERSITY DOES NOT PREPARE YOU FOR THE WORK ENVIRONMENT. I SPENT A YEAR IN INDUSTRY AND FOUND THAT YOU COME BACK TO YOUR FINAL YEAR OF UNI WITH A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE...
”
people’s personal life as well as their job life,” says Andy, who spent four months this year in Holland testing the project. “You have to be mindful of how it affects them as a person, not just giving them piles and piles of work to do, and making sure they don’t get a mental breakdown because of it.” We say: During his sandwich year, Andy worked for three different companies in three different areas of engineering. Work experience is invaluable. “University does not prepare you for the work environment,” Andy notes. “I spent a year in industry and found that you come back to your final year of uni with a different perspective.”
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we’ll give you a head start Carillion’s vision is to be a leader. What’s yours? We aim to be the UK’s leading provider of integrated solutions in building, infrastructure and business services. Join us and you could find yourself working on some of the most creative and essential spaces in the world: from high-tech hospitals and offices to essential transport routes.
Graduate Programme we’re looking for at least a 2:2 in Engineering, Construction/Building, Quantity Surveying, Business Studies, Hotel/Leisure
or Facilities Management. You’re competitive, adventurous and want to push the boundaries in an organisation that’s setting the standard in sustainable development and corporate social responsibility. Above all, you never want to stop learning.
we’ll deliver a good starting salary plus a Learning Account of £500 to spend in your first year on your personal
development. Our two-year Graduate Programme, with coaching and guidance from a personal mentor, will be tailored to you and your future. to apply
we believe in equality at work
to apply or to find out more please visit our graduate recruitment wbsite at
www.carillionplc.com/graduates or call our graduate recruitment team 01902 318361.
www.carillionplc.com making tomorrow a better place
FEATURE | ENGINEERING | CASE STUDIES
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“
we see a lot of children with cerebral palsy WHO MAY NEED SURGERY. we analyse their gait to see what surgery might be necessary...
”
“My engineering work interacts with people as well as machines,” says Zoë Robertson, a bioengineer who works in the Gait and Movement Laboratory at Derbyshire Royal Infirmary. “I am always seeing the end user with the work I do in gait analysis – you see that people are actually using what you have done with your engineering degree.” Step by Step: Engineering in the NHS The job: In the gait lab, Zoë, 28, uses infrared cameras, reflective markers and computers to generate three-
“It allows people to control it all through a single switch, which can be operated with their head, for example,” she explains.
can find a different solution altogether. It’s important to have everyone’s input – especially the patient’s.”
Why apply? Zoë, graduated in 2001 from
The challenges? Learning to apply engineering solutions in ways that suit
dimensional images of how people walk and how their biomechanics function. “We process the data, do an interpretation session with a consultant and a physiotherapist and an engineer,”
the University of Cardiff with an MEng in integrated engineering; she became interested in rehabilitation engineering during her final year. Gait analysis is a highly competitive field, but Zoë’s final
the patient, for example, when designing environmental control systems. “I now know that it’s important to take it back and take smaller steps – just the telephone or just the television at first,”
Zoë says. “For example, we see a lot of children with cerebral palsy who would perhaps be recommended for surgery and we analyse their gait to see what surgery would be necessary.”
grade – a first – and the fact that she carried out her final project at Cardiff’s bioengineering department gave her the edge to get the job.
she explains. “Over time the person will get used to that and use everything. Whereas before, I would have put everything on a system at once, now I think how it could be built up gradually.”
Zoë’s engineering work also takes her into the field, where she designs, installs and maintain environmental control
What gets her out of bed? “I’m very passionate about engineering, but I also like the fact that my job involves me
We say: Research your intended field and find a way to gain experience in it
systems. “Those are systems that are put into the homes of people who have quite severe impairments and that
working with other professionals and doctors and physiotherapists and occupational therapists,” she says. “I
before you graduate, Zoë advises. During her final year at Cardiff, she volunteered with Remap, a charity in which engineers
enable them to control things like using the TV and videos, and opening doors.
might have the technical knowledge, but [others bring in] a different factor and you
design bespoke equipment for people with various impairments.
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battle tanks and ammunition, you will be responsible for saving lives, not just time. Equipped to build bridges in Belize, repair weaponry in the Balkans and maintain machinery in Macedonia, you could be embarking on one of the most exciting and exhilarating careers today.
IMAGINE THIS… You’re with your mates driving to Heathrow for a break in Barcelona. Despite the poor visibility and the traffic being slow, you are all upbeat on a characteristically dull and wet Friday afternoon. Your bags are packed, your passport is ready and your currency is waiting at the airport. Shortly, the plane will be too.
With 15 miles from your destination, 80 minutes from departure and with two miles of slow moving traffic ahead, the car grinds to a complete halt. What do you do? You could reach the airport with a basic understanding of mechanics but, without this, you’re going nowhere. However, if you noticed the pulling sensation of the engine and know it can be temporarily fixed with a simple adjustment, you could be travelling much further. Offering one of the most advanced training programmes in the world, the Army prepares you to fix far more than a faulty fan belt. Handling highly sophisticated equipment, including aircraft communication systems,
Sergeant Kuo Ching Lin was travelling to work when her car broke down. Taking it to the garage to be repaired, she realised that she could have solved the problem herself with a simple procedure. This small trip has since taken her on a massive journey. Leaving a career in reflexology for one in the REME (Royal Engineering and Mechanical Engineers), Sgt Lin undertook an ONC in Mechanical Engineering which was sponsored by
BRIGHT SPARKS FLY HIGH IN THE ARMY…
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the Army: ‘Initially I didn’t think the Army was for me and
I thought it was going to be really hard. It was hard but I received excellent training and, during this time, I scuba dived in Jamaica and went ski-ing in Canada. I have represented the Army at judo, rounders, athletics and netball. Eleven years on, I am fully equipped to transfer my engineering knowledge
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into a civilian role. I’m still choosing to develop my skills in the Army.” The Army offers 140 opportunities and 75 different engineering careers including ammunition technician, aviation groundcrew, signals electrician, vehicle mechanic and bricklaying. As an officer, initial training will take place at Royal Military Sandhurst and you will then specialise in one of the Army’s five engineering Corps; Royal and Mechanical Engineers, Royal Engineers, Royal Signals, Royal Logistic Corps and Army Air Corps. A graduate starting salary of £21,301 will increase with your level of responsibility. With a competitive salary, benefits and the opportunity to gain further qualifications, making your career choice doesn’t have to be rocket science.
Do you have what it takes? To find out more about staying on track to a successful career, visit :
www.armyjobs.mod.uk call 0845 600 1480 or contact your local Army Careers Office.
CMD 0000 Purple Machinery
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Your future in metal? Whether you are a Civil, Electrical, Structural, Mechanical or Environmental Engineer, Corus can provide a range of opportunities to suit your career aspirations. Our training is accredited by the IEE, IMechE, ICE, IoM3. Our individual development plan will make sure that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re supported by mentors, experts and peers throughout your early career. Corus is involved in exciting projects, on the railways, and in the construction, automotive and packaging industries. At the same time we also need to ensure the optimum efficiency of our own multi-million pound plant through investment, maintenance and process enhancement.
All applications are on-line. To find out more about the Engineering opportunities awaiting you at Corus and see where you could fit into our future, visit our website. We require a minimum 2:2 degree in any degree discipline. Benefits include pension scheme, quarterly bonus, 25 days holiday, employee share-save schemes and interest-free loan.
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FEATURE | ENGINEERING | CASE STUDIES
Fast track: Jobs in Formula One The job: David attends all races and tests undertaken by Minardi, and is responsible for the car’s engine. He can either be found at the race track during the F1 season or at Cosworth Racing’s factory, analysing data from the last race and
RW
“
why apply? there’s variety and responsibility - it’s a job that takes you from san marino and sao paulo to shanghai...
”
preparing for the next one.
“Motor racing is the pinnacle of engineering,” says David Lamb, an analysis engineer working for Cosworth Racing, based with the Minardi Formula One team. “It is a highly competitive environment, and you are tested on a very public stage every other weekend.” “Whilst the car is on track, I monitor its health and ensure there are no problems via the telemetry,” says David, who
because you get to visit corners of the globe that you would not necessarily choose to visit.”
graduated from Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine with a first-class MEng degree in mechanical
What gets him out of bed? As you’d expect of a man who works in a field
engineering. “In between outings, I will usually make changes to the engine’s set-up based on feedback from the drivers.” David, 24, initially made contact
where success is measured in hundredths of a second, David thrives on the element of competition inherent to his job. “The process of designing, manufac-
We say: If your dream is to work for an F1 racing team and you want to build your CV ahead of time, investigate to see whether you are eligible to join the
with Cosworth Racing through a summer placement between his third and fourth year of university and was invited to apply for a permanent post.
turing, testing and racing an engine is so complex that problems can be introduced at any stage,” he notes. “The fact that the engines run at all is an
Formula Student project. This is a competition that is a joint venture between the Institution of Mechanical Engineers and the Society of Automotive
achievement in itself!” The challenges? Working long hours,
Engineers Incorporated of America (www.imeche.org.uk/formulastudent/ about_us.asp).
often whilst still jet-lagged. Also, manoeuvring through and around some of the egos that comes with the job requires diplomatic skills. “I have found out that nobody is wrong in motor sport,”
“It provides an excellent opportunity to demonstrate the ability to work as part of a team, whilst also displaying engineering competence at the same time,” David says.
Why apply? Variety and responsibility, not to mention having a job that takes you from San Marino to Sao Paolo to Shanghai. “I usually get to take ownership of a problem from the beginning to the end, which is rewarding,” explains David. “The travel is a huge bonus as well,
David notes. “It is probably even worse working for an engine manufacturer, as you are easy pickings. No matter what power your engine produces, it is never enough.”
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The jungles of Africa. The snowcaps of the Arctic. The deserts of the Middle East.
Welcome to the real world. ENGINEERING AND BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Some companies offer responsibility. The chance to have an impact on their business. At Bechtel, we go one better. We offer the chance to have an impact on the world. The Channel Tunnel. The world’s largest refinery. We’re renowned for delivering the world’s most challenging engineering contracts – landmark projects that go down in history. Join us in either Engineering, Procurement, Construction or Corporate functions and you’ll play a critical role in their delivery. It’s not easy. From day one, you could find yourself anywhere in the world. We’ll also expect you to attain the highest standards in your field. But rest assured, whether it’s on-the-job learning or study towards professional qualifications, we’ll do all we can to ensure you fulfil your potential. To see where we could take you, visit www.bechtel.co.uk/graduates
FEATURE | ENGINEERING | CASE STUDIES
Driving forward: Careers in manufacturing The job: Neil, 25, is part of Peugeot
The challenges? “Trying to earn respect of the operators,” Neil notes. “One of my operators is younger than me, and all the rest are older than me. Some of them
Citroen’s graduate scheme. Since joining in April 2004, he has worked as a quality engineer and on car assembly projects
there who have worked for the company longer than I’ve been alive.” But Neil makes sure he knows as much
before moving into his current position, He supervises 25 assembly line operators at the company’s plant near Coventry. “I look after the labour situation,”
as he can about the operators’ jobs. “I don’t just look at things from the company part of it, look at it from their side,” he suggests.
he explains. “If we have got people off absent, if we have to discipline any operators, I have to deal with that.
We say: If you desire a career in the motor industry, working for a global
Another of the main parts of the job is the buyoff, which is the number of cars that leave the end of the line right rather than having defects that have been detected and need fixing.” Why apply? Two p’s – passion and progression. “After I gradated, I worked for a medium sized motor sport company, but I wasn’t getting the experience and training that I wanted,” he notes. “I knew I wanted to stay in the motor industry because I have a passion for cars. The Peugeot scheme seemed right. The graduates I spoke with at the time I was applying all had good stories to tell and you could see that there was progression into management.”
company may be your best bet. On one hand, the UK’s manufacturing industry has experienced continuous job cuts. But the government is convinced that modern manufacturing is central to the UK’s economic future. This means an increased focus on new technologies transforming products and processes. This spells demand for skilled grads. n
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“
The government is convinced that manufacturing is central to the UK’s economic future. Meaning demand for skilled graduates
”
What gets him out of bed? The job’s variety, which draws on his engineering background to sort out production problems, and gaining experience in business through handling labour issues.
“To understand the problems, you have to have the engineering OR technical background. You have to understand how the car works,” says Neil Allen, who works as a production manager for Peugeot Citroen. “But then on the flip side, you need to know thE business as well.”
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Goodrich Corporation is a leading global supplier of systems and services to the aerospace and defence industry. If there’s an aircraft in the sky – we’re on it. Goodrich technology is involved in making aircraft fly… helping them land…
Goodrich Control Systems
and keeping them safe. Serving a global customer base with significant
Shaftmoor Lane, Hall Green,
worldwide manufacturing and service facilities, Goodrich is one of the largest aerospace companies in the world.
Birmingham B28 8SW t: 0121 707 7111 e: Michelle.mcClarnon@goodrich.com w: www.goodrich.com
Opportunities We typically recruit into the following areas, with the majority being in engineering disciplines: ɀ Mechanical Engineering
The majority of graduate trainees embark
In Brief
on a training programme that lasts 12-18
A global aerospace systems provider.
months. This will incorporate projects
Mechanical Engineering, Electronic
within the business. Graduates are given
Engineering, Software Engineering,
the opportunity to put theory into
Manufacturing Engineering, Finance,
ɀ Electronic Engineering
practice but also to acquire a great deal
ɀ Engineering Software
of knowledge in new fields.
(background in electronics essential) ɀ Manufacturing Systems Engineering
Work Offered
and placements in numerous disciplines
We can, however, also cater for those graduates who would prefer to go
HR, Marketing, Purchasing. Subject of study Any degree disciplines will be considered. Application details
ɀ Strategic Sourcing
directly into a role in their chosen field.
ɀ Finance
Typically, these graduates already have a
ɀ Marketing
least one year’s relevant work experience.
Michelle McClarnon, Graduate recruitment.
ɀ Human Resources
Whichever route of entry, graduates can
Closing Date
Ideal candidates should have a degree in
expect support in gaining professional
Applications are accepted throughout
a related discipline but must also have
qualifications and recognition, and a
the year.
the drive, ambition and enthusiasm to
satisfying breadth and depth of
Locations
assist us in our pursuit of excellence.
experience. Graduates will receive early
Birmingham, Belfast (software only),
Send CV and covering letter stating the area of work you are interested in and why you think you are a strong candidate to
responsibility through real work and
Germany, West Hartford (CT – USA).
Personalised Training Plans
significant business-related projects.
Goodrich is the world’s leading independent
In recognition of the individual
In addition, each graduate will possess
engine control supplier.
requirements of all successfull
a Personal Development Plan (PDP)
applicants, we operate a flexible
setting out short and long-term
approach to training which tailors
development and career goals,
organisation. No one has more jet-age
development activities and experiences
identifying learning and experiences
experience, or a better understanding of
to the individual.
required to meet these aspirations.
We provide high integrity engine control systems and a global customer support
leading technologies and broader systems capabilities to optimise the overall control system. We have a wide range of applications for civil engines, large and small, helicopters and all forms of military aircraft including trainers, transporters and fighters. Further Information Download a brochure at: www.enginecontrols.goodrich.com.
First Engineering is a key member of the ÂŁ760 million turnover company, Babcock International Group, offering rail support services from single discipline through to major projects throughout the whole of the UK. An energetic company, we are developing and progressing forward within the evolving rail industry and believe that our investment in people, systems, plant and technology creates our innovative edge.
For more information apply to: Christine Mann, Resources and Development Manager, First Engineering, 7th Floor, Buchanan House North Wing, 58 Port Dundas Road, Glasgow G4 0HG Tel: 0845 000 3005 Email: recruitment@firstengineering.co.uk
on track? Is your career
A member of Babcock International Group
www.babcock.co.uk
We are therefore seeking dynamic, creative and motivated individuals who want the opportunity to work with First Engineering at the forefront of the rail industry.
In return, we provide a robust training programme, followed by continuous development throughout your career. We offer flexibility, allowing employees to shape their career path as they gain experience in a variety of areas including: Track Renewals Plant and associated services High Output Consultancy Signalling Telecommunications Technology Electrification and Power Civil Engineering Facilities Management Real World 190x140
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salary package & benefits
Shape your future... and ours Have you got what it takes to be a leader in a business that touches the lives of millions? 17,000 people working together. Millions of customers. Offering world class service to businesses and consumers alike. Leaders in water, electrical engineering, business consultancy, customer service management and IT. United Utilities offers a unique breadth of experience.
17,000
career progression
employees
structured graduate development programme
opportunity opportunity opportunity opportunity opportunity opportunity
learning & development
international opportunities
Renowned for our leading-edge approach, we're shaping the way the utilities industry operates. Your skills, talent and energy will help us maintain that edge. As a FTSE 100 company, we are a powerful player in British industry. This power is built on our people. We're building our business on individuals like you, selecting our leaders of the future and grooming them through a graduate programme. If you want to be a leader in a challenging, competitive and highly enjoyable business and have got what it takes, we want to meet you. Followers need not apply. Go to: www.unitedutilities.com/graduates United Utilities Graduate Opportunities
first_UU.indd 1
Leaders in Business Consultancy
Leaders in Electrical Engineering
Leaders in Information Technology
Leaders at the Core
Leaders in Water
11/11/05 6:35:21 pm
Grad Ad 2005
4/11/05
8:55 am
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Want to spread your wings?
We are a truly international company, a market leader in power
human
generation with a great history and a world famous name.
management
If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re ready to spread your wings, take a look at our
You could be flying high in no timeâ&#x20AC;Ś
opportunities in engineering, finance, purchasing, logistics,
www.rolls-royce.com/university
resources, to
operations see
how
management your
career
and could
customer take
off.
Trusted to deliver excellence
Do you have
the drive?
Our Graduates are like our cars; each one is the result of intense planning, hard work and continuous development. Like our product range our Graduates have their own personality and style which sets them apart from the competition. Our vehicles continue to push the boundaries of innovation, quality and performance; our Graduates the same. Whether it’s the dynamic pace of Commercial and Aftersales Management, the frenetic buzz of Operations Management, or the demanding challenge of Human Resources that appeals to you, PSA Peugeot Citroën offers a Graduate Scheme to suit every taste. As you would expect from one of the world’s most successful companies, we offer an enticing benefits package, including a competitive salary of c. £24,000.
For more information and to apply, visit our website
www.psacareers.co.uk
Europe and China ( ) Graduate and internship opportunities with ICI
Quest International
ICI Paints
National Starch & Chemical
Uniqema
For more information about how you can have a uniquely rewarding future with ICI please visit our website:
The ICI Group is one of the world’s largest producers of specialty products and paints. With 33,000 employees and annual sales of more than €8 billion, we are a global leader in creating the ingredients that define what you see, touch, smell and taste every single day. As an outstanding individual who is looking for a challenging career, you could be our vital ingredient. ICI graduate and internship opportunities cover areas as diverse as: • Sales • Marketing • Research & Development • Engineering for Manufacturing • Human Resources
• Information Technology • Purchasing • Supply Chain • Finance
www.icigraduates.com
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RealWorld_AZ
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www.ideas.astrazeneca.com
Graduate opportunities in Engineering, Operations, Finance and Bioscience. Just think where your talent and ambition could take you at AstraZeneca. One of the major players in the international pharmaceutical industry, we support our graduatesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; development with serious investment, challenging opportunities and a culture that really rewards high performance. See how far you could go: www.ideas.astrazeneca.com
YOU MAY HAVE FINISHED YOUR DEGREE
BUT YOU’VE JUST STARTED
YOUR EDUCATION GRADUATE & POST GRAD OPPORTUNITIES C.£19,000 + EXCELLENT BENEFITS | NEAR READING, BERKSHIRE Business & Finance, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Computer Science, Construction, Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Environmental, Manufacturing, Materials Science, Maths, Mechanical Engineering, Metallurgy, Physics, Production Engineering, Safety Radiological Protection, Structural Engineering, Systems Engineering At the Atomic Weapons Establishment, we’ve grown to become the largest high technology research, design, development and production facility in the country. An international centre of scientific and engineering excellence whose expertise is applied to a wealth of fields outside of our commitment to maintaining the UK’s nuclear deterrent. The scale of our operations means that whether you’re looking for a scientific, engineering or business career, we’ve got
something for you. In fact, we believe you’ll find our individually tailored programme is one of the most comprehensive around. Its aim is to equip you with all the skills you need to push the boundaries of conventional thinking and become an expert in your chosen field. Right from the start, you’ll hone your abilities on live projects. We also provide all the support and financial assistance you need to gain further professional qualifications. Plus, with the diversity of disciplines we operate
in, you’ll continually have opportunities to expand your horizons. Then, to cap it all off, there’s our benefits package that includes 28 days’ holiday in addition to statutory bank holidays, final salary pension scheme and graduate focused relocation assistance. So in all, we offer everything you could ask for and more. To apply online, visit www.awe.co.uk or phone for a graduate brochure on 0118 982 9009.
AWE welcomes applications from women and men, regardless of disability, sexuality, racial or ethnic origin, age (up to 65) or responsibility for dependants. Successful candidates will be selected solely on their ability to carry out the duties of the post. Because of the nature of the work undertaken at AWE, these posts are required to meet special nationality rules and therefore are only open to British Citizens. All selected candidates will be required to undergo security clearance.
www.awe.co.uk
091105S3 297 x 210
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NO, I’D RATHER JOIN ENTERPRISE, WHERE I CAN RUN MY OWN BUSINESS WITHIN 2 YEARS – I’LL BE THINKING UP NEW WAYS OF MARKETING ONE MINUTE, AND WAYS TO IMPROVE CUSTOMER SERVICE THE NEXT.
Will most industry-leading companies really make the most of your talent? Years at university only to become an expert in photocopying. Hanging round the boss’s desk waiting for instructions. And a pay rise. Better join the Enterprise Management Training Scheme to make sure that’s not you. We’re an international car rental company with a multi-billion pound turnover, that teaches you to run your own section of the business in as little as two years. You’ll learn about everything from sales, marketing and customer service to operations and finance, so you can make crucial business decisions and reap the rewards. You could be promoted twice in one year. Earn in two years what could take you five elsewhere. We’re here to make the most of your potential, not let it wither and die. To apply visit www.enterprisealive.com/rworld or call 0870 850 1232.
Come alive
R
We are an equal opportunities employer
YES, I’D LIKE TO WORK FOR A COMPANY FULL OF CLONES, WHERE EVERY DAY SEEMS TO MERGE INTO ONE AND HIERARCHIES KILL FRESH IDEAS, UNTIL THE DAILY GRIND CRUSHES MY ENTHUSIASM INTO THE CARPET.