Tough job prospects for young people

The current global economic downturn is having a real effect on young people with a survey showing that nearly half of all firms will not be looking to hire graduates or school leavers in the months ahead.

The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development found only 20% of companies were planning to hire school leavers and a third of firms had cut back on their graduate numbers in 2009.  45% said they wouldn't hire from either group!

With young people having little or no work experience, the CIPD have said that graduates and school leavers need to develop the skills and knowledge to be ahead of the competition for jobs. 

Tips For Young Jobseekers

• Take advice
  
• Broaden your horizons to related professions
  
• Consider paid or unpaid work experience
  
• Do not be too proud to use contacts to get a first break
  
• Do not be too proud to take a job that you think may be beneath you
  
• Be imaginative
  
• Consider setting up your own business.
  

Source: Higher Education Careers Services