Are We Jumping Through Hoops for Graduate Jobs? A Personal Reflection
Embarking on the journey of landing a graduate position can, at times, feel like a never-ending series of obstacles. Recently, I found myself navigating the application process for BAE Systems, and the experience left me with more questions than answers.
Imagine this: after dedicating three hours to craft a tailored CV and cover letter, I was then required to upload these details onto their application platform, again typing my information into predefined fields. A task I initially thought was a simple submission turned into a time-consuming endeavor.
Once I crossed this hurdle, an email promptly arrived in my inbox. They requested a “video interview,” during which I was expected to record my responses to several questions. Accompanying this were “game-based assessments,” all of which were part of the next screening phase before potentially reaching the Assessment Centre. Although they estimated this segment would take about 45 minutes, I quickly discerned that doing it right would mean investing several more hours.
In my first attempt to record an interview response, I paused midway, feeling unexpectedly exposed. There was an unexpected sense of vulnerability and a diminishing self-worth that I couldn’t quite shake. This process didn’t just test my skills and knowledge; it seemed to chip away at my dignity.
The harsh reality hit me when I considered the numbers: investing over ten hours in a single application with the likelihood of being one in two thousand candidates competing for just fifty available spots. It’s hard not to question if this meticulous, labor-intensive process truly serves us, or if it’s akin to performing stunts for an exceedingly slim chance of success. Are we just jumping through hoops for a mere 2% chance at success? It’s a daunting thought.
Balancing this demanding application journey with full-time studies and a part-time job to cover living expenses feels impossible. The day only has so many hours, and this current system seems to expect more than is feasible—it feels like a disconnect from reality.
In conclusion, the current trajectory of applying for graduate roles demands a critical examination. Are the extensive commitments asked of candidates during the recruitment process justified, or are we trapped in a cycle that needs rethinking? Your thoughts and experiences would be most welcome.
2 Comments
Thank you for sharing your experience and concerns. It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed by the graduate job application process, particularly when it involves multiple stages and a significant time investment. Let’s break down some of the challenges you’re facing and offer some practical advice to help navigate them.
Understanding the Process:
First, it helps to recognize that graduate recruitment processes are often designed to be thorough because employers like BAE Systems need to filter a large pool of candidates to find the best fit for their organization. These roles are often highly competitive, and the multi-stage process is intended to assess not only your technical and academic capabilities but also your soft skills, such as resilience, communication, and adaptability.
Reframing Your Perspective:
While it’s clear the process can feel daunting, try to reframe it as an opportunity to showcase your unique strengths and qualifications. Viewing each stage as a chance to demonstrate your capabilities, rather than merely a hurdle to overcome, can offer a sense of purpose and motivation.
Strategies for Efficiency:
Research the types of questions that might be asked in video interviews for BAE Systems and rehearse your answers. Practice can help boost confidence and reduce the number of attempts needed.
Leverage Resources:
Seek out forums or networks, such as LinkedIn groups, where other candidates share experiences and tips related to BAE Systems or graduate role applications in general.
Mindfulness and Self-care:
Building Resilience:
The journey to securing a desired graduate role is often a marathon rather than a sprint. While it can be disheartening at times, each application process can offer learning experiences. Reflect on feedback, if available, to improve future applications.
Alternative Approaches:
Considering a diversified approach can be beneficial. Explore roles that may not require such an intensive application process, such as internships or entry-level positions, which can also lead to fulfilling career paths
Thank you for sharing your candid experience regarding the challenges of applying for graduate positions. Your reflections highlight a significant concern that resonates with many recent graduates: the often-overwhelming nature of job applications.
One aspect that stands out is the psychological impact of the process. The feeling of exposure during video interviews, coupled with the hefty time commitment, can indeed chip away at one’s self-esteem. This speaks to a broader issue within recruitment practices—companies may not realize the toll these processes take on candidates’ mental well-being and motivation.
Moreover, it’s worth considering the effectiveness of such extensive application processes. Are employers truly gaining valuable insights through video interviews and game-based assessments? Research suggests that traditional methods often yield better predictors of job performance. Perhaps there’s an opportunity here for companies to streamline their processes, focusing on fewer but more effective evaluation criteria that respect candidates’ time and effort.
It might also be beneficial for the industry to adopt a more holistic view of candidate potential, moving away from a purely outcomes-based approach. Initiatives that encourage open dialogue about job-hunting experiences, such as forums or graduate support groups, could empower applicants and provide a sense of community amidst this often isolating challenge.
Ultimately, the conversation you’ve initiated about rethinking recruitment methods is essential. Job seekers deserve a system that not only assesses their skills but also respects their time and mental health, fostering a more equitable and humane job market for everyone. Would be interested to hear more thoughts on how we can collectively advocate for change in this