KUALA LUMPUR: The balance of power has shifted in the employer-employee landscape with prospective candidates – even fresh graduates – having more say in the jobs they accept.
According to Nabil Marie, CEO of Graduan, a one-stop online platform that connects talent with employers, the trend is already tilting towards fresh graduates and employees – who increasingly demand more work flexibility.
“In return, companies are trying to find ways to adopt a more hybrid or flexible work arrangement to attract the best graduates and professionals,” Nabil told FMT.
“For instance, employers are gradually allowing semi-casual work attire in the office; but at the same time it is still a business, hence the expectation for professionalism, hard work and productivity remain the same,” he continued.
Nabil said he also encouraged fresh graduates and experienced professionals looking for their dream job or ideal workplace to join the 13th edition of the Graduan Aspire Career Fair from May 20-21 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. Entry to the fair is free, and those interested can register at graduan.com/aspire or download the Graduan app.
With over 100 multinational corporations (MNCs) and local corporate giants from finance, oil and gas, property developers and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCGs) such as Maybank, AIA, Nestle, CIMB, AmBank, Shell, EY and many others, graduates can network and connect with potential employers in one place.
A major highlight, he said, is the Aspire Lounge where candidates can interact with and ask questions from high-ranking executives from industry leading corporations who will be sharing their work experiences at a fireside chat.
“Since 2011 we have had more than 50,000 attendees each year. We always advise candidates to research as much as possible on their potential employers and to dress well to ensure that they make a good first impression.”
“Learn about the companies, the management training programmes, and prepare smart, specific questions that show your interest and help you to stand out from the crowd,” Nabil said.
He also stressed the importance of building networks and professional connections through apps like LinkedIn – starting now.
“Most companies first look for recommendations or referrals when hiring; so someone you connect with now, may well be the one who can and will help you in the future,” he added.
Nabil also invited candidates to visit graduan.com and to follow Graduan’s social media pages to find helpful articles, hints and tips on how to prepare for job interviews, job postings, and videos on companies – vital information that will help candidates in their job hunt.
For more information and to register, click here.