Government Internship Plans Miss the Mark

The Government recently announced new internship plans for graduates, which they say will help build skills during the current economic climate.

While some have welcomed this, our concern is that the focus on graduate development doesn’t nearly go far enough. What we are really seeing is the Government finding new ways to massage unemployment figures.

With the credit crunch impacting on jobs in all sectors, we know the problems graduates are facing, but there are jobs out there and our belief is that resources should be spent on helping give you the skills to get them from a much earlier stage.

For example, most geology graduates will not be prospecting for oil; instead they are more likely to be working in a business environment, yet most courses contain no preparation for the world of commerce or management. Why not introduce communications skills modules from the outset or basic business management practice to help equip graduates for the modern world?

At the same time careers advisors need to open their minds to careers such as sales and sales management. In our service-focused economy sales is one of the most important aspects of any business, and offers incredible career potential.

While everyone recognises the value of work experience, don’t think this just has to be in your chosen career path. In the current climate take the opportunities you can – you may not use your degree by working in a shop or factory but you will gain valuable skills in terms of working in teams and general work discipline – skills that will be invaluable throughout your career.

Why not tell us your thoughts on the graduate internship programme?