Plotr Roadshow - London Samuel Gordon, AGR Research Analyst Tuesday 8 th March Setting the Scene: Key Student Market Trends

Employers increased opportunities in % increase in vacancies 10 out of 13 sectors are growing Growth across the board – large & small firms 3.7% increase in starting salaries Source: AGR 2015 Annual Survey.

There are opportunities in all regions Source: HESA statistics for 2013/14 UK-domiciled leavers from higher education.

Preparing students for these will help Source: AGR 2015 Annual Survey. Share of employers that use these tests when selecting candidates. Psychometric tests may be online tests.

Did you know… 71% of AGR employer members don’t stipulate a degree discipline

Skills mix

Here are nine key skills to focus on

What do employers want? An ability to work collaboratively with teams of people Excellent communication skills: both speaking and listening A high degree of drive and resilience An understanding of the political, economic, commercial issues affecting an organisation An ability to embrace multiple perspectives and challenge thinking A capacity to develop new skills and behaviours according to role requirements A high degree of self-awareness An ability to form professional networks An openness to and respect for a range of perspectives A willingness to play an active role in society at a local, national and sometimes international level.

Or put more simply… Can work with and get things done with other people Practical intelligence to think through problems clearly and deliver solutions A passion for their chosen industry/career The resilience to do difficult – sometimes dull – work in challenging, changing circumstances

Encourage them to break a few eggs

Encourage graduates to think long-term

Prepare them for career-long learning