Do you dream of landing yourself a tech career? Do you know how you’re going to get yourself one?
You may be somewhat surprised to know that the path to a career in tech actually begins in primary school. Bank of America Merrill Lynch understands that, and recently hosted a STEM workshop designed to encourage primary students to consider a future working in tech.
But, of course, the real choices aren’t made, and aren’t final, until secondary school. As this week saw the first deadline pass in the CAO application process, we examined the benefits of pursuing a STEM course of study.
We also took a dive into the subjects you should study if you want to be guaranteed* a job upon graduation.
(*Not literally guaranteed, but you know.)
Once you graduate, getting a job can be a fraught experience, regardless of your qualifications. Did you know that even the wording of job adverts could be putting you off applying? We spoke to Hays, who explained to us how companies can do more to make their adverts appealing to a wider range of applicants (and even improve a company’s diversity rating).
Once you get to the interview stage, though, you’re more or less on your own. You could make life a little easier for yourself by reading about the six interview mistakes you’re making, and how to avoid them. You’re welcome.
We’re also helping you out from the other side of things. Have you ever got a job you really wanted and then felt let down on the first day by a less-than-stellar welcome? We’ve pulled together some pointers that should help employers do just a little bit better.
And all of this fantastic advice should stand you (and your progeny) in good stead for some of the major hiring sprees coming down the pipeline, from the Government’s Action Plan for Jobs 2017 to the 120 jobs just announced by Virgin.
Finally, we spoke to someone who’s already doing well in the STEM sector. We learned about the path he took to get to where he’s at now and about some of the projects he gets to work on. A little inspiration never hurt anyone.
As always, for more on any of these stories, follow the links below.
1. Tech-savvy kids: Learning how to turn skill into a career
There is a growing talent gap in the tech sector. One way to fill it? Show young children why tech is worth loving.
2. Have you considered a career in STEM?
As the deadline for the first round of CAO applications approached, we had a suggestion for applicants.
3. What can I study to guarantee myself a job?
The first CAO deadline passed this week and, while students mulled over their options, there was no doubt that some courses would yield more jobs than others.
4. How to get more diversity with better job adverts
Diversity has become more important than ever for employers looking for top talent, but how do you attract diverse candidates? Maureen Lynch, director at Hays Recruitment, explains how your job adverts might be affecting the diversity of your talent pool.
5. 6 interview mistakes you’re making and how to fix them
Are you striking out in your job interviews? You could be making one of these common mistakes without even realising it.
6. How to give new employees the best first day ever
Do you remember the best first day of work you ever had? What about the worst? As a manager, it’s up to you to make sure each new employee has a successful and happy first day.
7. There’s no escaping Brexit in Government’s Action Plan for Jobs
Last year, the Government’s Action Plan for Jobs promised a future of smart cities as part of the internet of things. This year, the focus is squarely targeted at the fallout from last summer’s Brexit decision.
8. Virgin expansion bringing 120 jobs to Limerick ‘immediately’
In a bid to up its headcount to 400 people in Limerick, Virgin Media is on a recruitment drive, seeking 120 people at its national customer experience centre.
9. As the research sector expands, more exposure falls on its scientists
Paul Kelly, a postdoctoral researcher at Dublin City University (DCU), tells us about his work developing the cell lines that go into high-quality therapeutic drugs, and explains how communication is now a big part of that work.
Looking for jobs in tech or science? Check out our Employer Profiles for information on companies hiring right now and sign up for our Career Republic e-zine for a weekly digest of sci-tech careers news and advice.
