Why is work experience so important?

Getting a degree is undoubtedly one of the most important steps towards getting a job.

But because of the current economy crisis, employers are looking for more than just a degree; they want experience.

With little jobs available, the job market is extremely competitive, – so having work experience can put you one step above fellow applicants.

Depending on your university hours and the course you do, having time for work placements can seem impossible.

However, even just a few weekend shifts at your local radio station or elsewhere will instantly put some pizzazz on your CV.

Hannah Webster, a media student at the University of Lincoln, says that in many industries work experience can even be more important than the degree itself:

“You can make contacts and get some real life experience that academic projects can just never compete with,” she says.

Many employers love to see that graduates have gone out into the real world &  taken responsibility of their future.

It may sound a bit odd to those with degrees that cover a wide range of topics, but even a small placement at somewhere local will boost your CV no end.

Alex Dunn works for the University of Lincoln Careers & Employability and says that work experience will help you stand out from the crowd in the eyes of your employer:

“There are so many things you can gain from doing work experience – it is a more hands on way of developing skills, and helping you decide whether certain types of work are right for you. Work experience complements degree work fantastically, allowing you the chance to put your new found knowledge into practice and allowing you to relate what you’ve learned to the world of work”.

So there you have it, work experience can do you the world of good. Getting a placement will bring your confidence levels up and help with producing your CV, but don’t forget the importance of your degree as well.

If you want more information or advice about work experience, the University of Lincoln Careers and Employability team can help. Contact them on their website or drop in to their office behind the Library on the Brayford Campus.