Employers are continuously responding to the impact of COVID-19, and this has seen various changes in recruitment trends, both for graduates and the wider employment market.
In response, Careers Network are utilising their relationships with employers across various sectors to ensure that our students and recent graduates are kept up to date with the latest changes.
This page is continuously updated with the latest intel which will also be shared across our social media channels and Class of 2020 LinkedIn Group, so please ensure you follow to receive the latest information.
A Graduate Labour Market Update: July 2020
Posted 09 July 2020
Over the last few months, there have been various activities taking place to allow us to gain a better understanding of how COVID-19 will impact graduate recruitment, and what employers are doing to respond. Although still uncertain, with many employers yet to reach a decision about their recruitment plans, we have been able to develop a sense of what graduate recruitment entails so far;
The Recruitment Process
Although some employers have reached the decision to make cuts to graduate recruitment, we do know that many are yet to reach a decision. This has led to delayed responses for graduates currently going through the application process. Through conversations with recruiters, we know that they are reassuring applicants to remain patient as they iron out their plans and processes but encourage applicants get in touch where they have concerns.
For many employers who are continuing to recruit, they have moved their assessment processes online which has sped up the recruitment process for many.
Employers advise that applicants ensure they have fully prepared for the remote assessment processes as they would for an in-person assessment.
Many employers are delaying new starters by up to six months, but some are aiming to induct new recruits virtually. Many are delaying training and development for new hires this year.
International secondments are being delayed for most firms.
In terms of internship and work experience opportunities, many employers are now offering virtual opportunities.
Sectors that are excelling
At present, we know that sectors such as health, science, social care, tech, law (namely employment and probate), telecommunications and teaching are seeing a surge in recruitment, particularly at graduate level. This is reflected through the vacancies we’re seeing advertised through our jobs database, Careers Connect. Examples include Chemist/Lab Technician, Medical Writer, Teaching Assistant, Junior Software Developer, Social Media Marketing Assistant, Data Analyst, Cyber Security Consultant and many more.
HS2 have recently announced that it will more than double the number of graduates it hires in the business year, and vacancies will also be advertised via Careers Connect.
Graduate recruiters are keen to get across that many organisations are still recruiting and encourage graduates to be wary of the negative headlines.
We continue to see several vacancies uploaded by employers targeted at University of Birmingham students and graduates. View our sector pages, or log in to Careers Connect to view the full list of vacancies currently advertised. You can also register to receive alerts for vacancies in your area of interest.
Sectors that are struggling
There are some sectors that have suffered more than others. The arts, retail, travel, construction and tourism are facing the most damage, however, recruitment prospects are more promising for graduates than non-graduates.
The impact on recruitment in retail may affect term-time employment for students, however work is being done by organisations to offer virtual opportunities.
Many SMEs (Small/Medium Enterprises) are currently short on cash flow meaning they are unable to recruit at this time.
Great sources for vacancies and information
If you have any concerns or anxieties about your career prospects, or you’re exploring alternative career options, then please get in touch and book a careers appointment with one of our Careers Advisers who can help you plan your next steps.