Twice a week we publish problems that will feature in a forthcoming Dear Jeremy advice column in the Saturday Guardian so that readers can offer their own advice and suggestions. We then print the best of your comments alongside Jeremy’s own insights. Here is the latest dilemma – what are your thoughts?
I graduated from university in July with a degree in accounting and financial management. As part of my degree I completed a 12-month placement in the finance department of a manufacturing company. I have been applying for graduate and entry-level finance roles for the past three months and I have not been shortlisted for a single interview.
Recently, I signed up with a recruiter who has organised interviews with potential employers, but I have not been offered a position. I have got a retail job to keep me going.
Searching for finance jobs is harder than I thought. All my peers with similar qualifications are either in entry or graduate roles.
I get rejection emails stating they are looking for candidates with relevant skills and experience. I ask for feedback but I get no replies. I tried calling the companies to ask for feedback. Most say they have a “no names policy”, which I find frustrating.
You and some readers may suggest I should apply to the company where I completed my placement but I don’t want to work in the manufacturing industry, mainly because of economic uncertainty caused by the EU referendum.
I still want a job in accounting and finance, but I am starting to feel inadequate, possibly looking to do a master’s. I don’t know what kind of employers are willing to hire an accounting graduate.
What advice can you give to a young graduate like me who is looking for a job in their field?
Do you need advice on a work issue? For Jeremy’s and readers’ help, send a brief email to dear.jeremy@theguardian.com. Please note that he is unable to answer questions of a legal nature or to reply personally.
