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New figures in the ‘Pulse Survey 2020’ published by the Institute of Student Employers (ISE) this week suggest that this year could be another sluggish year for growth in the markets for both graduate jobs and entry level positions.

Recruiters surveyed by the ISE said that they expect to have just 3 per cent more graduate vacancies on offer this year, compared to an anticipated rise of 18 per cent at the same time twelve months ago.

Likewise, employers forecast that they will only have 2 per cent more entry level positions such as apprenticeships and school leaver programmes on offer in 2020, compared with an expected increase of 7 per cent in 2019.

The results of the Pulse Survey 2020 were compiled from the responses of almost 300 UK employers during December 2019.

Although the anticipated increase in graduate vacancies is at its lowest ebb since 2016, there are glimmers of hope in the charity and public sector, where growth of 14 per cent is expected by decision makers.

The silver linings in the entry level jobs market are the construction and digital/IT sectors which are looking forward to growth of 11 per cent and 25 per cent, respectively.

Offering some insight into the expectations of recruiters, Chief Executive of the Institute of Student Employers, Stephen Isherwood, said: “The graduate jobs market is an early indicator of the health of the economy as employers tend to plan further ahead when deciding their graduate recruitment needs.”

“What we’re seeing now is particularly concerning as employers are normally over-optimistic at this time of the year. As we move through the recruitment season they typically recruit less than they had anticipated. Outside the public sector the market is not looking particularly healthy. The government needs to get the economy moving otherwise this year we’ll be in for a stagnant graduate labour market at best.”

“If the government want to see further growth in the apprentice market it needs to address employer concerns about how the apprenticeship levy works,” added Mr Isherwood.

Yet again, these figures highlight the importance of having work experience if you are going to be able to compete for a graduate job when you leave university. Earlier this week we brought you the news that young people are struggling to get started in their careers because employers don’t think they are work-ready.

The very best way to place yourself as a real contender in the graduate jobs market is to gain some work experience by finding relevant part time jobs and holiday work - or by doing an internship.