2. Objectives To conduct an AHECS led Survey to inform on current recruitment market trends To raise awareness of AHECS authority, on Graduate Career development, learning and employability To Promote AHECS links with Industry, Students and Academics and the supportive role it can play in devising policy and recruitment activity.

3. Approach Survey completed summer 2013 Companies selected from top recruiters in 2012/2013 period Questionnaire on numbers recruited, salaries, and employability skills Identified 7 distinct labour market areas

5. Key Findings Graduate recruitment set to rise Commerce & Engineering most sought after Honours Degree minimum standard favoured Salaries to remain static

6. Key Findings –Relevant Work Experience Relevant Work Experience as important as Academic Results when short listing. The most important criteria when shortlisting graduates

7. Key Findings:- Employability Skills Top: Team Work and Positive attitude, followed by Business awareness and Communication & literacy

8. Key Findings:- Employability Skills Skills to be worked on Self-management and Business awareness Along with Communication and Problem solving

9. Development of Employability Skills Positive attitude: Should be “what I can do for the company” and not “What can you do for me” Involvement in a variety of activities essential “ …Ask a busy person” Keeping up to date on what is happening in industry rather then “cramming….”

10. What employers are saying “ Competition is increasing…., to secure a job.. Need to be a good all rounder,.. Good results, get work experience……” “the more work experience gained, the more real estate that a candidate has when it comes to applying for graduate roles” “Attending training sessions provided by careers services… will help develop skills in areas not addressed academically…” “Positive attitude is everything for a company and the right fit will be a person with the right attitude….” “learn a language..” “attention to detail” “Improve your IT skills “learn how to sell yourself when making an application….”

11. The way forward……Our Graduates need to Be well-rounded individuals with a positive “can do” attitude Achieve Strong Academic results combined with relevant work experience Develop good team, and communication skills Have a good understanding and awareness of the industry they hope to build successful careers

12. How… Recommend:- Continued development of closer working relationships with Academic Schools, Employers and Employer Groups Provision of:- Embedded Employability Skills Module in Curriculum. Work Placement Option in all degree programmes