Three ways you can avoid job mismatch
The Guardian has reported findings from research carried out by Universities UK suggesting that many of us are not in jobs that we are trained for.
Results from their study indicate that 33% of graduates are working in situations that are not related to their degree.
This may prove that some degrees have transferable skills that can be utilised in other industries, but in reality, it points to over-qualification, fewer career prospects and lower wages.
With this in mind, what can you do to find your preferred job on Jobrapido rather than settling for something you are not passionate about? Here are three ways you can avoid job mismatch.
1) Choose the right degree
Unfortunately, universities are no longer just a public service provider. They are there to make money even if it is to continue to offer education. This means there is a wide range of courses that do not align with economic needs. Some courses do not lead to specific careers but rely on skills that can be adapted across industries.
If you want to avoid being landed at the wrong desk, you need to choose a degree which is geared up for a specific career. These are also some of the hardest degrees so you will have to study harder. Top examples include law, engineering and medicine. Economics is also a good option but slightly more flexible than the latter options.
2) Stay up to date
Not all of us are smart enough for seven years of medical school – and that’s okay. Not all is lost if you want to avoid job mismatch but don’t want to become a doctor or lawyer. You can also choose a degree route wisely if you stay up to date with economic affairs.
For example, knowing that the UK is currently investing in off-shore wind farms with a plan stretching decades is good evidence to get into renewable energy and this specific branch of engineering. Read the news and stay alert to these type of projects.
3) Use online courses
The internet has granted us many freedoms, and one of them is the freedom to retrain while still working and picking up a wage. Online courses can help us pick up new skills or hone our existing capabilities to put them into a freelancing career.
Going self-employed is one of the best ways to gain job satisfaction – however, be prepared to work hard, especially in the beginning.
What can employers do to avoid job mismatch?
Job mismatch isn’t just demotivating for staff; it is also not beneficial to employers and their companies. Staff turnover due to job dissatisfaction and a lack of passion can cost recruiters a lot over the lifespan of the business.
Ideally, employers want to attract professionals who want to work in their company and do not see their short-term future elsewhere. To avoid your company becoming a steppingstone, make sure you:
- Create detailed and accurate job descriptions.
- Supply a daily schedule of tasks.
- Assess the applicant’s personality rather than just their skills.
- Make it clear that your role is aimed at those seeking a long-term career.
Most of us need to work, and doing something you are not passionate about to stay employed is admirable. But where possible, for your own personal satisfaction (and to avoid burnout), it’s wise to avoid job mismatch where you can.
Photo by Sharon McCutcheon
