‘Don’t restrict yourself to a linear career path — it’s important to be open and adaptable’

Mary McCarthy, careers adviser at University College Cork, has carried out research with her colleagues which suggests that about a third of graduates go on to structured graduate programmes.

This means, she says, that the majority of graduates will start their career with an entry-level job, most likely in a small and medium sized enterprise (SME).

“SMEs most likely won’t have a formalised programme, but there will be training and mentoring and, perhaps, opportunities to get more hands-on experience doing different things. Don’t restrict yourself to a linear career path: it’s important to be open and adaptable and, perhaps, be willing to take a few six- to nine-month contract roles which will help you to gain valuable experience. This may be a launch pad to a higher level job with more scope and responsibility.”

Ruairi Kavanagh, editor of gradireland, says large firms and SMEs attended their recent graduate fair.

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“SMEs are the biggest employer in the country, so while some graduates may really thrive on a graduate programme, it is not the only option.”