Dear Baby Boomers and Gen X,
I am writing to you today on behalf of all the Gen Y's struggling to enter to workforce.
First, let me give you some background on myself:
I am a College graduate and current University student. I am enrolled in a cooperative education program at one of the best Universities in Ontario. I am entering my fourth work term with an abundance of experience in my field, a solid educational background, and absolutely no hope for what the future workforce has in store.
I just want to say one thing loud and clear...
WE ARE NOT LAZY!
We are a hard working generation who has been discouraged time and time again.
I have jumped through every hoop imaginable to ensure every aspect of my resume stands out to employers. I also watch fellow friends and classmates go through the same struggles and have no choice but to shake my head.
Here is a check list of what we need for employers to CONSIDER looking at our resume. Baby Boomers and Gen X, please feel free to check off which ones applied to you when attempting to enter the workforce
1) Good grades
2) More than a year of relevant work experience
3) Volunteer experience,
4) Extra curricular activities
5) Certificates
6) Reference letters
But wait...Don't forget about the cover letter and connections to the company you are expected to have!
I have just one question employers:
WHAT MORE DO YOU WANT FROM US?
I had the opportunity to work in Human Resources for my past two work terms and saw all the work students put into their applications. Along with this, i was able to see employers who do not look at three quarters of these resumes!
Hey Gen Y! Guess What?
In first year college/university trying to get relevant work experience? No chance. Many companies will not hire you if you are first or second year students. Why you ask? Well you do not have enough experience for the position. Isn't the point of an internship to get experience?
To all you fellow Gen Y's out there, I wish you good luck and encourage you to not be discouraged!
To all employers, I hope you can give students a chance moving forward!
How can they have work experience when that is what their aiming to gain? How could they have possibly perfected everything on that checklist?
Be realistic, please.
Sincerely,
A frustrated Gen Y.