Employers are far more likely to be impressed by a CV which demonstrates attention to detail/spelling & grammar (66%) and work experience (64%) than one which focuses on qualifications, according to new research.
However this has come as a surprise to 14-19 year olds. 56% of those asked said they think that employers look for GCSEs and A-Levels (55%) when in fact the reality is that only around a third of HR decision makers actually do look at GCSEs (38%) and A-levels (33%).
Less than half of the 14-19 year old respondents identified attention to detail / spelling and grammar (47%) as something they think employers look for – when in fact, two-thirds (66%) of HR decision makers flagged this up, putting it at the top of their list.
The study, conducted by the Career Colleges Trust, questioned HR decision makers and 14-19 year olds to see what employers actually look for compared to what young people think they want to see. The top five things that HR decision makers look out for from a school leaver / recent graduate:
• Attention to detail and good grammar and spelling (66%)
• Work experience (64%)
• Real life evidence of skills (60%)
• Example of where the applicant has added value (57%)
• Achievements (54%)
However work experience was identified as key for both groups – with 74% of 14-19 year olds and 64% of HR, decision makers recognising the importance of gaining exposure to industry.
Ruth Gilbert, CEO of the Career Colleges Trust who conducted the research, says:
“Schools and colleges need to ensure that they give students access to work experience opportunities and ensures they are equipped with all the softer skills desired by employers. Evidence of these skills is crucial and this is something our Career Colleges work hard to ensure their students can demonstrate”.
Harrow College offer a number of Career Colleges in Digital & Creative and Professional & Business Services. These courses are very closely associated with employers, offering students the additional benefit of involvement in work related projects, developing enterprise and communication skills to prepare them for work and life.
Click here for more on Career Colleges at Harrow College.