In May, the New Zealand Association of Graduate Employers (NZAGE) hosted a fantastic panel discussion featuring three of our 2023 Industry Award winners: Grace Jonnalagadda (Graduate Experience Advisor at Russell McVeagh), Melanie Barr (Partnerships Director, Faculty of Business, Economics and Law at Auckland University of Technology), and Sarah Moyne (Manager of the Career Development and Employability Services team at the University of Auckland).

Seventy NZAGE members tuned in for this online event and it was great to see so many of our new members joining the discussions.

The panel focused on several key topics, including industry partnerships, trends, engagement, diversity, student mindset and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the influence of AI in graduate recruitment.

Here’s a summary of the highlights from the discussion:

The Importance of Industry Partnerships.

Melanie opened the discussion on industry partnerships by highlighting the significance of relationships between universities, stakeholders, and students. These partnerships are essential for connecting students with career opportunities and bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world applications. She emphasised that university-industry collaborations help students understand the broad range of career paths available to them.

Sarah explained that close collaboration between central and faculty-specific teams allows for a broader range of expertise and support for students. This approach provides a comprehensive understanding of career development while maintaining strong relationships with employers and industry partners.

Mindsets and Skills in Career Development.

The panellists discussed the importance of relational connections in career development. While skills and capabilities are often highlighted, the right mindset is crucial for a student’s adaptability and confidence. The challenge lies in helping students build these mindsets to navigate the complexities of their career paths effectively.

The panel also discussed the lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on students’ learning experiences and career readiness. The uncertainty caused by the pandemic has led to a broader sense of economic instability, affecting how students perceive their career options. The panellists emphasised the need to foster a sense of capability and encourage students to navigate their career journeys with confidence.

“(There is) a lot of support needed. It’s not ‘handholding’; I think it is almost the opposite of that; we provide support on how to build their sense of capability to achieve success, to help them become agile problem solvers who are ready to take on challenges confidently.” – Sarah.

Trends and Insights in the Industry.

Grace noted the increasing focus on mental health and well-being, particularly during the transition from academic life to professional work. She stressed the importance of staying informed about research and industry trends to better understand and address students’ challenges.

Grace also emphasised the importance of personalised support, noting that each student is unique and requires a tailored approach. Taking the time to understand each student’s needs can lead to a smoother transition from academia to professional life.

“Really getting to know your students and recognising that each one is unique is essential,” she said.

“Everyone has their own experiences, and the way they deal with challenges can be very different. Some graduates need more support, while others are ready to dive right into work without much assistance. The key is to be open to those differences and to acknowledge that just being selected as a graduate is a huge achievement. It’s important for them to take the pressure off themselves and focus on the journey ahead.”

Sarah discussed the shift from a transactional approach in career services to a more relational one, prioritising meaningful engagement with students. This shift is crucial, given the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the heightened need for student support.

Engaging Students, Diversity, and Building Community.

Melanie shared how her team has developed activities that connect students with industry partners throughout the year. These activities range from curriculum-embedded activities to industry-specific events, allowing students to network with professionals and gain insights into potential career paths.

She also discussed the diverse student body and how to connect with them.

“The diversity within our student body continues to grow. This isn’t just a trend in graduate recruitment—it’s a reality that industries must understand and embrace. Internally, universities are working hard to support this diverse group of students and help them succeed.

“We collaborate with our employability team and the broader community of student clubs, which drive many student-led initiatives. The key is to recognise the wide range of diversity within the university—including Rainbow, disability, cultural groups —and engage with them to ensure we’re not missing out on connecting in a meaningful to support their futures”

The Role of AI in Recruitment.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a significant topic in recruitment and academia. The panel discussed the use of AI in student applications, such as AI-generated cover letters. Grace shared that her firm introduced a personal written exercise in the recruitment process to better gauge a candidate’s genuine thoughts and ideas. Both Melanie and Sarah discussed how their teams guide students on using AI purely as a tool for research and initial drafts, emphasising the importance of authenticity in their work.

Advice for Supporting Graduates.

The panel concluded by underscoring the benefits of being part of NZAGE and building a community of like-minded professionals. Networking, attending the Industry Awards and Summit, and sharing ideas with peers can help professionals stay informed and motivated in their roles. This sense of community is essential for driving innovation and fostering a supportive environment for graduates entering the workforce.

Our next panel discussion with MYOB – winners of the 2023 Best Candidate Experience award will be held on May 16^th at 12pm. We hope to see you there! 

Please contact Bronwyn at info@nzage.co.nz if you have any questions.