University of Memphis spring graduates, like their peers around the country, are looking cautiously into a world of growing economic difficulty.
The University of Memphis’ governing body recently unveiled tentative plans to eliminate up to 930 jobs and raise tuition this fall because of state budget cuts.
Shelby County Sheriff Mark Luttrell’s plan to give 326 deputy jailers the axe looks like it has enough political support to pass.
“Employers blame the shrinking number of jobs for the class of 2003 on anything from diminished hiring needs, budgetary cutbacks, hiring freezes, to lay-offs,” said James Smith, a senior counselor at the Memphis Area Career Center (MACC).
What does this have to do with The University graduating class of 2003?
“New graduates will find that it’s harder to find a job this year than last, and they face fierce competition in the marketplace,” said Smith. “They are competing with their peers as well as many displaced workers that can offer potential employers that much sought after experience.”
According to Barbara Joyce, who teaches résumé preparation at MACC, “There are criteria that employers are looking for and that’s what we do here. We are a partnership between the private sector, non-profit agencies and federal job training and education programs.
In her presentations, Joyce said she highlights important issues employers have with new hires, especially the new graduates.
First, Joyce suggested graduates make sure their verbal and written communication skills are sharp.
“Students should come take advantage of the programs offered in the career center, like mock interviews that will teach you how to articulate your strengths,” Joyce said.
Another frequent complaint employers have about recent college graduates is they possess an unrealistic expectation of where they fit in the work force.
Joyce said she reminds new graduates, “You probably won’t be the CEO of a company within your first five years on the job, and you probably won’t be pulling down a six-figure income for a while either.”
