After two tough years, graduating seniors finally have something to look forward to: rising employment rates.
Employers plan to hire 27% more new graduates this year than they did the year prior, estimates the National Association of Colleges and Employers Job Outlook. There will be approximately a 30% increase in hiring over the next six months.
As the unemployment rate lowers and the hiring increases, this year’s graduates are projected to have a more promising and easier experience in job finding after graduation, said Shayne Bernstein, associate director of Hunter’s Career Development Services.
Students might start to wonder if another job offer will ever come once the first one reels in. They are promised a better job outlook this year, so having to choose the right job might end up being their first dilemma as new job seekers. Recent Hunter graduate Larisa Nugent found herself in a situation like this when she was offered her first job fresh out of college, one that didn’t fit her goals.
“Possibly losing the opportunity I had in front of me was scary,” she said. “I kept contemplating whether it would be a good idea to just take it or wait for the position that I have been wanting.”
She ended up taking the risk, rejected the position and a couple of weeks later received the offer of her dreams.
Considering all their options, students will have to take it step by step. Because the job market will only continue to improve, Bernstein advises new applicants to be patient until the right job comes knocking.
“Don’t accept the first one you are given,” she said. “There might be a better one out there but do interviews and get that practice.”
With that in mind, the Career Development Services received a higher intake of job opportunities from employers this year, said Bernstein. Not only that but they have been receiving an increase in students seeking help as well.
Employment numbers are looking optimistic as upcoming graduates will have to meet real life in a few weeks as new job seekers. According to Statista, the U.S. unemployment rate in March reached almost 8%, which is more than double than last year. Almost 56% of respondents to NACE’s Job Outlook 2022 Spring Update survey indicate that they will increase their college hire numbers drastically.
Hiring may be increasing but that doesn’t mean students aren’t worried. A recent study by StuDocu shows that 64% of U.S. students fear career and employment setbacks, especially after difficulties from the COVID-19 pandemic. They fear their work experience might not be enough and end up costing them their chances in getting hired.
“Despite a record number of job openings, employers continue to favor candidates with several years of experience and those who are available to work odd hours and willing to work on-site,” said a post by business consulting firm, BMA Group.
Upcoming Hunter graduate Nyya Collins was in search of an internship two years ago. During her search, this media studies student noticed that most entry-level jobs were looking for at least two years of experience. Collins was determined to get started, but the pandemic had other plans for her, and with her graduation only three weeks away she has done zero internships.
“Hopefully, jobs are more understanding because as college students we didn’t have the luxury of getting experience while in school,” Collins said.
