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Welsh Recruitment

You’re a Welsh speaker. How important was it to get a job in which you could use your dual-language skills?

The job description required that it was essential I was fluent in Welsh and English. The office is primarily Welsh speaking, and I feel very comfortable in this environment, since Welsh is my first language. I believe that it is very important that Welsh should be a relevant language in today’s job market. Customers for whom Welsh is prominent in their day-to-day lives need to feel confident in dealing with people in the public sector, for example. As a capital city, Cardiff offers many job opportunities for Welsh speakers. This is vital to Wales as a whole as it promotes the use of our heritage language, whilst giving graduates like myself a competitive edge in the Welsh employment market.


How have you found the general attitude towards graduates who are seeking to gain work experience in Wales?

Typically good, as long as you are truthful about your long-term career aims. If your employer understands what you want to get out of your job, they can assist you in formulating the career that you want. Employers actively target graduates, so remember your degree should provide you with an advantage. With my job, I have been offered various training courses that will hopefully make me a more desirable candidate for future job applications.


What do you think are the key qualities that employers are looking for in graduates?

I believe that aside from the knowledge that graduates have acquired during their studies, employers like to see enthusiasm, reliability and experience in applicants. I was a Vice-President of a society whilst at Cardiff, and I’m positive that this worked in my favour – I was asked about this position during my interview. A graduate who is actively involved in extra-curricular activities during their time at University – whatever they may be – is more likely to be favoured. Employers like to see dedication and passion, which is clearly vital for any job application.


How do you see your career developing?

As I want to progress to do a PGCE in the near future, my current employment will be extremely beneficial to my planned career. I hope to gain knowledge of the education sector from a financial perspective, and alongside some work placements at secondary schools in the Cardiff area which I am currently finalising, I believe that my position as a Student Finance Assistant will be a vital stepping stone in my career.


What advice would you give to final year students or those who have just graduated who are looking to start a career in Wales?

If you are still studying, make the most of your time left! Do more than just attend lectures, as this will seriously enhance your opportunities for employment as a graduate. If you have just graduated, please don’t underestimate the skills you have acquired during the course of your studies – from leadership through to organisation. Now is not the time to be modest, so be sure to include everything that you think will further your case. Play on these strengths in your applications and interviews, and see the job offers roll in!

(Picture: Rachel Williams wearing her graduation outfit)