Recent graduates and young people of today are of a generation raised by parents and teachers who were around to experience the finance boom of the 1980s, when dreams seemed possible with just a little hard work and dedication.
Popular, ‘trendy’ industries such as those in the media – film, tv, music and print – all have the advantage (or disadvantage, depending on which way you look at it) of not having to pay competitively to attract talent. Despite this, young people today continue to spend thousands (and even more so come September 2012) on university education on a degree that they are passionate about – rather than a degree that is practical and has a stronger guarantee of a career come graduation day.
Organisations in the music industry receive thousands of speculative CV’s each month, for non-existent jobs. I doubt the same can be said for the ‘less-attractive’ industries such as manufacturing, accountancy, or housing.
Media has nurtured us to think that way. Songs with lyrics about achieving your dream job, not working 9 - 5, films causing us to believe that such careers are easy to achieve – that all it takes is a little hard work and commitment. Unfortunately, this is no longer the case, there are several external factors affecting your career, the major one being the current economic climate. So, unless you are fortunate enough to be well connected (“it’s not what you know, but who you know”), then perhaps it’s time to settle for a career in something that you perhaps don’t love quite as much, but still enjoy and pays adequately.
Recent years has seen an increase in the amount of housing subjects being studied at University. The industry may not be as competitive as music but generally is one where job roles are incredibly rewarding. This said, reward doesn’t come without hard work, and a housing position is not one to be entered into half-heartedly. Here at Housing Jobs, we’re interested to hear how you got into your role, was it always your intention to end up in the Housing industry, or was it by chance? Let us know on here or at enquiries@housingjobs.org.uk – if your story is really inspiring, it might end up in the official Housing Jobs newsletter!
