Overcoming the Current Job Market
March 23rd, 2009 - byThe market stinks. Unemployment is soaring. You certainly do not need me to tell you how bleak the economy is and unfortunately, no one is certain when things will improve.
As most would expect, the tough financial times are having a strong impact on new college grads seeking employment. A recent article in the IndyStar outlined just how ominous the job market is for upcoming college grades. “New graduates are facing the perfect storm,” said Erik Sorenson, chief executive officer of Vault, a career management and job search company. “As one of the largest and most talented graduating classes ever, they are entering the worst job market in decades.”
The article also provides some startling statistical data to backup this pessimistic outlook. “In the first decrease in recent history, employers expect to hire nearly 22 percent fewer grads compared with last year, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers. Hiring increased 8 percent in 2008 and almost 20 percent in 2007.”
While no one is immune to the economic troubles, one theme that is relevant and has constantly been discussed on this blog has been the proven advantages that college athletes have when attempting to find a job after college. Countless numbers of studies have been conducted which show that because of certain characteristics that are especially attractive to employers, college athletes have an easier time getting a job after graduation.
Unfortunately, I do not have any numbers to show that college athletes are having an easier time finding employment than non-athletes in the current job market. However, I believe that this recent financial downturn has only re-emphasized the value in being a college athlete.
Does being a college athlete guarantee a job after college? Of course not. Are college athletes having trouble finding employment in the current economy? Most likely. However, if I had to take my chances given the current state of uncertainty, I would much prefer to enter the job market with “college athlete” on my resume. Who knows, it might make all the difference.
March 24th, 2009 at 1:16 pm
I’ve mentioned this before on this blog, I was a hiring manager for a large money-center bank in the 1990’s. I was always most impressed with the student-athletes I interviewed. There were a number of reasons for this: First, these graduates were better prepared for our meeting. The same mindset that goes into preparing for a game was used by these individuals to prepare for their interview. Second, they could demonstrate to me that they embodied qualities that I looked for in a potential employee. Among these are time management skills, ability to work in a cooperative team environment, tenacity to get the job done when times are tough, and competitive drive excel. Finally, I could never hire these impressive individuals. They all received multiple job offers. Most of those paid more than my bank was willing to pay.