Uptree

Whether you’re speaking to current undergraduates, recent graduates, those on a gap year, or young people who are still at school, it’s likely you’ll touch on the topic of good communication when talking about early careers.

Usually, topics around clear writing, follow-ups and interview answers are delivered by employers to encourage young people to practise good communication.

But in this week’s blog, we turn this argument on its head to explore how communication from employers back to students is key to keeping talent pools warm during this unprecedented year.

So, what’s happening right now?

According to an ISE study , young jobseekers are proactive and positive in their career planning, but they are concerned about the current employment market and how Covid-19 might affect their chances of securing a good job.

With thousands of roles in student-led industries dissolving due to the current restrictions and half of all eligible under 25s being furloughed , it’s easy to see why so many are feeling anxious.

In lots of cases, these are students who have shown will and determination, and who will have worked incredibly hard to achieve the grades and experience needed to apply for your roles. Many more will have been celebrating their first careers achievements back in March and will now be facing the sobering news that companies’ plans have had to change.

Thousands of others will be waiting patiently at various stages of disrupted recruitment cycles, desperate to hear updates on what might happen next.

Whilst the situation isn’t easy to digest, there are still lots of ways you can help as an early careers professional.

Why good communication is so important

Companies that offer regular updates and an honest pattern of communication are the ones that young people will remember.

If a role is delayed at short notice, keeping your successful candidates in the loop from the outset is key to retaining company trust and reputation.

For individuals with whom you have already undertaken outreach, run work experience days and who have engaged with you during fairs and events, keeping up good communication is also vital.

Being honest and transparent with opportunities will ensure your future talent continues to feel supported and included in the decisions about their futures, meaning they will be more likely to apply for your roles when these become available.

For young people who are on programme with you already, the same rules apply

You will need to work really hard alongside training providers and other stakeholders to make sure any disruption is minimal. Work, wherever possible, should be achievable remotely and regular communication between hiring managers, mentors and your candidates should be your top priority.

Above all else, honesty

In all of these instances, keeping things regular, outlining when your next update will be and offering guidance or alternative events to remain in touch is useful for students who are planning around disruption.

Uptree recommends monthly updates to students if resources allow, as these regular touch points will help students to adjust to the uncertainty this pandemic undoubtedly brings.

How this looks is up to you but we love ideas including personalised communication, handwritten cards, a virtual tea break or inviting them to participate in other ways, whether it be ambassador work or volunteering at a broader industry event.

But overall, the message is simple. Whilst this has not been the year that anybody could imagine, and there will be many tough decisions and challenges in the months ahead, by keeping things open and honest, you will keep your talent pool warm as this is the approach that young people will value the most.

If you’re interested in supporting students and reaching our diverse network, then get in touch with us via info@uptree.co for a chat or to join us.