The demand for university graduates remains strong and will continue to grow. According to the federal government, 75 per cent of jobs will require a university degree in the next decade. So how do students distinguish themselves from the thousands of other graduates looking for a job? They learn to think like an employer.

From Jan. 15 to 17, McMaster students and alumni have an opportunity to find out what employers are really looking for at The Value of Your Degree: Hear it From the Employer – a three-day panel series hosted by the Student Success Centre and Robert Half Canada, a specialized staffing firm.

“Panel participants will gain insight into what’s currently in demand in the market,” says Christine Lucy, national director of strategic partnerships with Robert Half Canada. “They will also learn what hiring managers and recruiters are looking for in cover letters, resumes and interviews.”

The panel will begin on Jan. 15 with a session exploring jobs in the creative and technology sectors. On Jan. 16, the focus will shift to careers in accounting and finance, while the session on Jan. 17 will provide a synopsis of the human resources and legal professions.

In each sector-specific session, students will learn how to connect their academic skills to particular jobs and which skills they should emphasize to employers.  A Robert Half representative will also address current market conditions, salary expectations, what to include in a resume and cover letter, contract/salary negotiating tips and how to tap into the hidden job market.

Don’t miss this opportunity to kick start your career. Sessions run from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. each day. Students and alumni should come dressed in business casual attire and bring their student card. For more information or to register, visit OSCARplusmcmaster.ca (click on Events – Student Success Centre) or call the Student Success Centre at ext 905-525-9140 ext. 24254. Space is limited.