Ever wondered what employers think about hiring students as workers? It's not all good news unfortunately. After talking to some of NZ's largest employers, the general perception is that students are unreliable, unprofessional, and have no commercial acumen or work ethic.

What do they mean by unreliable?
Basically - not contacting employers after being referred to a job; not showing up to interviews or jobs when a commitment has been made; not getting back to the employer when supposed to; or running late to work with no explanation. 

No professionalism and work ethic?
This revolves around not presenting yourself in a manner expected for the job (e.g. turning up in jandals to an office job!); putting in a lazy work performance; or just simply having a poor attitude.

Lack of commercial acumen?
This simply means that employers currently don't believe students can add value to their business, and cannot help them improve their bottom line - which ultimately is what it all comes down to in the business world.

Why this is a problem
Not all of our employers list exclusively with SJS, meaning our students will sometimes be competing with employees in the big wide world. You need to stand out and conduct yourself in the best way you can if you are going to get jobs now and in the future.

How to change employers perceptions
1. Adhere to the SJS rules - these are here to help you present yourself in the best possible light to employers, making them more inclined to list jobs for you in the future.
2. Research and understand the job and business you are going for - this will enable you to communicate your skills depending on the needs of your employer.
3. Conduct yourself the way you would for a graduate role - that lovely old lady you did a gardening job for? She may be a partner in a big accounting firm. Every job brings with it the opportunity for your development and deserves your respect - they are giving you money for your time after all!
4. And finally - prove that you as a student are a valuable employee. You are the future of New Zealand...so show this to employers! If even just one employer has a positive experience with an SJS student, they will be more likely to list more jobs for you and others in the future.

Ultimately the power to get more employment opportunities lies with YOU.