The speed at which technology is evolving with every passing day amid the digital age is causing ripples in the job sector. Jobs and skill sets that were readily in demand say a few years ago do not exist anymore. Given the upcoming pool of brand-new jobs like Web Developers, App Developers, Software Engineers, and more, engineering graduates are re-evaluating their professional choices again and again, seeking IT career counselling fearing that their dream jobs may no longer exist by the time they begin their professional journeys. Not only fresh graduates but companies around the world are also taking steps to impart corporate training and development programs for employees to keep up with the changing market trends.
However, the recent reports show that if you’re interested in engineering, you have ample opportunities in the job sector. Yes, engineering might be one of the oldest careers in the market but it has not stopped the prospective students and qualified engineers from being the most sought after amid this digital age.
Having said this, the disparity does not lie in engineering jobs not being in demand. But the gap lies in the mismatch between the skill sets that the industry expects and the skill sets that the engineering graduates possess. Adding to it is the generic market slowdown meaning fewer job opportunities but a stampede of engineering graduates entering the industry every year.
So amid such a competitive market and thousands of fresh engineering students graduating out of the universities every year, how does one make sure that their resumes are desirable enough to impress future employers? Here are five suggestions to turn the dial and become an employable engineering graduate.
- Indulge in practical projects
For many of you who are still living in a bubble, here is an eye-opener: there is more to excelling at university than attending lectures and ensuring good grades in written exams. You also need to be proactive and be on the lookout for any tiny opportunities that you think will get you closer to your dream career. Of Course, engineering is not all theory! You need to follow market trends, have a curious mind, and seek practical projects to get your foot in the door.
2. Work experience is the key
One cannot stress enough the importance of work experience on your resume. Employers will always stay more inclined to hire a professional who has hands-on experience about what it is like to work in the industry instead of a fresh graduate with zero industry experience. So when it comes to it, try to play an active role in the placement cell and look for internship opportunities – as many as you can throughout your course period. This helps you build valuable connections with seasoned professionals.
3. Acquire skill sets that are in demand
Here is a sly tip: Read the current job descriptions of your dream job. This will give you an exact idea of all steps you need to take to make it easy for yourself when the job placement time finally comes. It will help you confidently answer the most popular interview questions such as ‘What can you do for the company?’. Employers want to know how you can contribute to the company and what ideas and skill sets you will be bringing to the table. Apart from the technical skills that you learn during your course, there are also other soft skills that employers are readily looking for.
4. Attend a reputed university
Attending a decent engineering university with remarkable infrastructure and student facilities is crucial. A university that promises committed training, placement opportunities, and a pool of extracurricular activities, and has a solid brand name will benefit you in ways you cannot imagine. It will help you with the overall development, and groom you to be industry-ready perfectly.
5. Finding a career mentor
To speed your career growth and development, it is suggested that you find a career mentor right during the early stages of your career. This will help you get a first-hand experience from someone who has already been in your shoes. The right mentor will offer you career counseling and guidance, helping you stay right on track from an early stage.
But how will you find your career mentor, especially when you’re just starting? With the help of the Intercell Mentoring Platform, you will receive online career counseling from industry experts with years of experience, helping you catch a glimpse into how it is like to work in your dream job. They will help you with the next steps, impart insights, and keep you abreast with the latest skill sets that are being demanded in the industry.