Latest news: Graduates and first jobs

Graduates are suffering from a lack of responsibility in their first jobs, according to a new survey. 06/12/2011

Over a third (36%) of recent graduates are disappointed with the levels of responsibility given to them in their first jobs and believe that it is hindering their career progression.

The survey by UKSP, the leading information site for careers in the hospitality, leisure, travel and tourism (HLTT) industries, also found that one in five (18%) feel they have never been given the right opportunities to take on responsibility.

‘At a time of high graduate unemployment, it’s disappointing to also see that many employers are not making the most of the graduates they do take on – frustrating them by not giving them opportunity and leading them to become disillusioned with their jobs,’ said Lesley Potter from UKSP.

A further 45% believe they could progress quicker in their chosen career if given the right opportunities, with 22% saying they have less responsibility now than they thought they’d have at this career stage.

Statistics from Caterer.com and People 1st recently revealed that over 18,000 management roles were advertised from July to September in the hospitality industry alone.

‘For young people currently considering career options, as our recent State of the Nation report shows, managers in the hospitality, leisure, travel and tourism industries are often younger than average - especially those working in pubs, bars and nightclubs, restaurants and events. There’s a wealth of opportunity - both at graduate and non-graduate level - within the sector for those who want to experience managing a business at an early age,’ added Lesley.

With a host of national events approaching like the 2012 Olympic Games and the 2015 Rugby World Cup, the hospitality industry is one of the few that is actively recruiting at the moment.