The unemployment rate for young people today averages about 20%, the highest of any group searching for a job. The effect of this has forced many young people to go back home after graduation and live with their parents. This has placed an additional financial burden on the parents who now must continue to support their son or daughter and assume payment of the college loans.
Here are some of the misconceptions that have led to this problem and possible solutions to consider.
Employers expect anyone applying for job to be ready to do the work on day one. Training for many employers is no longer a financial option they can afford. Adding to this problem is the simple fact that many colleges are still spending too much time on teaching theory as opposed to work place reality. Some universities like Rutgers in New Jersey are attempting to correct this problem by offering college courses that combine both theory and on the job training through an internship program. But for many universities the debate continues between the colleges and potential employers on how to bridge this problem. For the current unemployed graduate living at home again with the burden of college debt, the only thing that matters at this point is finding a job. The fact some colleges teach too much theory or the employers who are flushed with an abundance of candidates to choose from are becoming too demanding is a mere side issue which they cannot control.
For the current graduate, hampered by the slow rate of recovery, has now reached a point where they must take some action on their own to narrow the gap between their college education and what employers require today for employment. Basically it requires taking further training or certification that provides specific education into the job requirements that you are applying for as a new college graduate.
We have overlooked over the last few years the fact that we live in a fast and complicated world with technology advancing faster than our ability to keep abreast. The job market is not only competitive but is in a constant change where many prior jobs no longer exist and new ones requiring specific skills and training go begging. This means constant updating in training and education for everyone (from level entry employees to employees with years of experience) to keep pace with the job requirements
So to the unemployed graduate- go for it! Consider this to be your first challenge in the workplace where challenges will always be part of your new job.
The views expressed in this article are those of the writer and are not to be used to answer other problems. For more information, visit our web-site at Compass Strategies Group.com.
