Securing a Job in Engineering: Top Tips (Part 1)
We revealed in our last blog post that the future is looking pretty good for the new generation of engineering graduates. With the UK looking to employ around 87,000 graduate engineers by 2020, it's safe to say that there are plenty of employment opportunities available.
However, this doesn't automatically mean that every engineering graduate will be able to walk straight into a job. Students still need to work hard and rise above the competition to secure top paying jobs. Whilst the results are promising, they still need to show these companies why they should hire them over someone who has been in the industry for a long time.
As a company who works closely with the engineering industry to supply high quality products such as torsion and die springs, we thought we would put together some top tips on securing that dream job after you graduate.
Start Early – Stay Ahead of Everyone Else
It might be tempting to leave the frustrating task of job hunting until after graduation, but you'll only be making things a lot harder for yourself. Looking for a job after graduation means that it's unlikely that you'll find one by next Christmas – and you'll be competing with everyone else that left it until then.
It's best to start looking ASAP – we suggest starting your search after this Christmas. It's never too early to secure a job – a lot of employers will be happy to offer you one that starts after completion of your course.
Work Experience, Work Experience, Work Experience
There is nothing more valuable than work experience. In fact, it's probably just as important as the degree that you get. Whilst employers may want to employ graduates, they will prioritise those that have sufficient and relevant experience.
What sets you apart from all the other graduates who received a 1st or 2:1? You need to have something that sets you apart from everyone else, and work experience is the best way to do this.
It doesn't matter if it's paid or unpaid – every bit counts. Some courses offer placement years (definitely worth doing), whilst other companies will offer internships alongside your studies.
Use The Resources at University
Universities have some brilliant careers resources available which you should definitely utilise. Sadly a lot of people miss the chance to do so whilst still at university, as they are too preoccupied or don't even know that such help exists. The people within your careers sector will be more than happy to help search for specific jobs, provide information on all available jobs, as well as help you tailor your CV for different jobs.
As you can see, there are plenty of steps to take when it comes to securing that dream engineering job. Keep checking back as we will be posting part two very soon!
In the meantime, if you're an individual or company looking to purchase some of the best springs and pressings in Europe, we can definitely help you out.
We specialise in the design and manufacture of springs in a range of different materials – just contact us for more information.
You can give us a call on 0208 663 1800 and we will be more than happy to help.
European Springs