Meet Jasmine Sibree, a member of Brightwork’s Gen Z Advisory Board. As a final year student at The University of Melbourne, we recently sat down with Jasmine to find out exactly what the graduate recruitment experience is like for students going through the process.
Here’s what we learned:
1. Can you tell us about your experience looking for a graduate role or similar opportunity? What have you been doing, and how have you found the overall job search process?
Looking for a graduate role this year has been a challenging but rewarding process. Over the summer holidays, I reflected back on my prior work experience and workshopped ideas on what steps to take next to move into my early career. This was greatly helped along by platforms like Prosple, Grad Connection, and LinkedIn! When I had down time I also took the time to refine my interview skills and resume, and peer-review with others.
The job search process can be difficult to balance at times with part-time work and university, but I found most employers to be flexible and accommodating to any additional needs I had. I also met some amazing recruiters throughout the process who were willing to give feedback, regardless of interview outcomes.
2. What elements attract you to an organisation’s grad program and motivate you to apply?
It’s always really encouraging to see a well-structured grad program, that clearly outlines rotations, training provided, and start dates so that candidates can plan ahead and know what they are in for. Testimonies and videos from current graduates or those who have completed the program are also great sources of information for prospective candidates who are looking to apply. I also find it valuable and reassuring when graduate programs lay out the recruitment and outcome timeline clearly, as this helps with job search anxiety!
3. Can you share an experience where a company’s recruitment process or strategy particularly impressed you?
I am currently the Vice-President of 180 Degrees Consulting, a student club, at the University of Melbourne. I am always really impressed when our partners or sponsors reach out to us to do a recruitment or company showcase event, as it shows their engagement with our community and also recognition of the great pool of talent that is available through university societies and student associations.
4. As a student, what has been the most challenging aspect of the graduate recruitment process for you, and how have you overcome these challenges?
The most challenging aspect of the graduate recruitment process would be time management. These days, most companies have multi-stage recruitment processes that entail psychometric assessments, video interviews, written assessments, and physical interviews. Over the weeks, the time commitment for each of these stages adds up on top of university work and part-time work that many students have to do, but with a bit of google calendar magic and rescheduling it can be made manageable.
5. How do you feel companies can better support students in the graduate application process?
I think the centralisation of online psychometric assessments would be helpful in reducing the amount of time candidates spend online crafting their applications. It would be a huge time saver for students as it would reduce the repetition of tests that are often trying to assess similar if not the same qualities.
We’re so lucky to have Jasmine’s energy and insights on our team! Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
