APPRENTICE star and West Ham United vice-chair Karren Brady answers your careers questions.
Here she gives a reader advice whose son is struggling for work and needs assistance in finding a reference.
Q: My son has a first-class degree, as well as a masters in creative writing, but is struggling to find a job.
He’s had temporary roles as a classroom assistant via an agency, and has volunteered at a library, but he hasn’t been able to find a permanent position.
He’s had a few interviews, but providing a reference is proving an issue, as there isn’t anyone able to vouch for him at the school where he worked (either they’re too junior or have since left), and the agency won’t give him a reference, as he hasn’t worked for them since last February.
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Do you have any advice?
Lois, via email
A: It’s unfortunate that your son is facing challenges in securing a job despite his impressive academic qualifications and experience, but this is not uncommon.
Encourage him to attend industry-related events and workshops where he can keep his skills up to date and meet professionals in his field.
Ensure that your son has a professional LinkedIn profile, as it is a great networking tool.
If he had strong relationships with professors or mentors during his academic journey, he could ask them for guidance, or they could provide references.
Suggest to your son that he seek volunteer opportunities or freelance work to add to his experience and help obtain references.
If he has engaged in writing projects or has a portfolio of his work, he should showcase it, as this can sometimes compensate for a lack of formal work references.
In interviews, your son can address the reference situation and offer alternative referees who can speak about his abilities and work ethic.
Persistence and a proactive approach will be crucial in overcoming these hurdles.
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- Got a careers question for Karren? Email bossingit@fabulousmag.co.uk.