Friday 11th February 2011 - Published by Robert Trigg - Communications Executive
Work Placements Unlock the Door to Graduates' Futures
Work placements for graduates fresh out of university are key to a successful career as the battle for jobs hots up.
With record numbers of graduates entering the job market and companies becoming ever more demanding in their expectations of prospective employees, experience is key. Graduate Advantage (GA), which offers placements with local businesses across the West Midlands, has said gaining valuable experience is crucial to making candidates stand out from the crowd.
According to a survey of 478 graduates who did an internship through GA, 60% are either in permanent or long-term contracts, proving internships and work placements really can open the door to a successful career.
With the recovery from recession still uncertain and the West Midlands seeing one of the highest rates of unemployment, research has also suggested there can be as many as 69 people chasing each graduate job.
Graduate Tom Hyland had a two-month placement with The Stage Bus, a new concept for outdoor events with a stage set in a double decker bus. With its unique character and pre-installed PA and lighting, the Stage Bus can be fully set in under two hours, costing 50% less than a traditional stage.
The company was established in 2006 by Andrew Teverson, who was looking for someone to help with the commercial side of the business including sales, marketing and bookings. Tom Hyland was offered the role of Communications Manager, due to his experience of being involved in live music and events for the past 10 years.
His strong background in event tech and work as a freelance sound engineer enabled him to continue to work as the Communications Manager following his two-month placement with The Stage Bus.
Andrew Teverson, Director of The Stage Bus, said:
“Graduate Advantage has been central in providing fresh ideas and developing the business. It has allowed us to add enthusiastic and passionate members to the team, and we even have a graduate who has now taken a management position within the company. We want to say a big thank you to Graduate Advantage for their fantastic work throughout the process.”
During his placement Tom was able to deal with all the commercial aspects of the company as well as identify different markets that have helped keep the bus more active and increase the amount of enquiries and bookings coming through.
Tom Hyland (left) and Andrew Teverson (right) with The Stage Bus
