Enhancing graduate prospects by recording and reflecting on part-time work

Abstract

Business leaders are becoming increasingly explicit regarding the skills, attributes and behaviours expected of graduate entrants. These skills are often developed through a combination of academic studies and work experience. While universities are increasingly providing opportunities for experiential learning, typically a placement year or internship, a growing number of students are undertaking self-initiated part-time work alongside their full-time degree studies. This part-time employment, typically in retail or hospitality, will help develop the skills, attributes and behaviours that employers demand. However, it is important that graduates are able to elucidate their learning to future employers during the graduate recruitment process. The purpose of this viewpoint article is to challenge full-time degree students who are working part-time to record (perhaps through a logbook) and reflect on their work experience so that they will be able to provide concrete examples to reinforce their skills and experience. The article concludes by discussing the role of universities in the process.