It is not that there are no jobs out there or Nigerian graduates are unemployable. They just don’t know where they belong. If you ask an average Nigerian graduate what work they will like to do. What you will hear is: Just give me anything, any office work. As long as I am in an office and collecting money at the end of every month to spend I am okay.
As a recruiter I am going to help you all out and save myself the stress because it is not easy when we have to screen through a lot of cvs and can’t find a suitable candidate that fits the role. It is very frustrating. Or we shortlist candidates for interview and they just mess up. Hence taking us back to square one of looking for suitable candidates.
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Below are the various industries and all it entails please go through it and find where you belong to save yourself the stress and also help yourself, go on linkedin and follow MartynsConsulting, we post exclusive vacancies there. We are aware that some vacancies posted by some organisations don’t exist. So you can always confirm any vacancy you see through our page (https://www.linkedin.com/company/11100407/).
MOD please move this to the front page

Accountancy & Professional Services
At major firms, accountancy and professional services encompass auditing, tax, consultancy and advisory services. Outside of the big players, accountancy relates more specifically to the management of a business's incoming and outgoing payments, as well as cash flow.
Every company has an accounting and finance department. As a result, if you choose a career in this sector you will have the opportunity to work in a wide range of fields and industries, and with a variety of clients. You’ll find more information on the different roles below.

What roles are open to me?
Accountancy roles can generally be divided into three main tasks: recording, classifying and reporting. Day-to-day recording tasks include handling payroll (paying employees), issuing and paying invoices. Classifying data involves managing the above transactions in the general ledger and sub-ledgers (specific ledgers for frequent transactions). Reporting includes financial accounting (issuing financial statements based on the general ledger), and management accounting (finding ways to increase a business’ profitability). Other specialist accountancy and professional services roles include:
• Auditing: checking records to prevent fraud and verify the accuracy of a company’s financial statements.
• Tax specialist: helping to minimise a company’s tax expenses.
• Consultancy: offering advice and guidance on a company’s insurance and investments.
• Advisory services: giving advice on acquisitions and mergers.

Major Companies
Major accountancy firms include PricewaterhouseCoopers, Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu, Ernst & Young and KPMG, collectively known as the Big Four.

What qualifications and skills do I need?
Graduates
Applicants for graduate roles at the Big 4 normally require a 2:1 degree. The exception to this is PricewaterhouseCoopers, who have recently dropped their graduate scheme’s UCAS points requirement and now allow entry to graduates with a 2:2, provided they have done “something exceptional outside their degree”. Often, small companies will also accept a 2:2. It is not normally necessary for your degree to be in a subject related to finance or accounting.
All candidates will need to display the following skills:
• Numeracy
• Communication skills
• Ability to meet deadlines and work in a high-pressure environment
• Ability to work well as part of a team

Training Opportunities
In order to develop your career in accountancy and achieve promotion, you will need to study and sit various exams. You will be given the opportunity to study for relevant qualifications and training on the job.
Application Process
The application process for accountancy roles normally follows the steps below. You will need to complete each stage successfully in order to progress onto the next step:
• Application form
• Online aptitude tests (these generally focus on numerical and verbal reasoning, but may also include personality tests)
• First interview (may be face-to-face or via phone)
• Assessment centre aptitude tests (these will again focus on numerical and verbal reasoning and may also include simulated exercises and personality tests)
• Final interview

Are there any downsides?
A career in finance can be stressful, as you will often be working and studying at the same time. This stress is unlikely to diminish over time, as each new qualification generally results in promotion, more responsibility and new qualifications to achieve.

Is it right for me?
Although a career in accountancy can be stressful it can also be rewarding, especially in terms of remuneration, job satisfaction and opportunities for promotion. If you are looking for a role in the financial sector that allows you to work in a variety of industries and with a range of clients, and you’re comfortable juggling work and study, accountancy could be the field for you.

Charities and Non-for-Profit
One of the most rewarding and diverse industries, the Charity and Non-For-Profit sector ranges from small local charities, welfare offices and community organisations to major worldwide charities, such as Oxfam, Unicef and Amnesty International.
Different charities operate in different ways - some concentrate on fundraising, others focus on carrying out funded projects, and some do both. As a result, there are a wide range of roles, career options and fields open to you within the sector. As many charities deal with global concerns, you may also have the opportunity to work and develop your skills abroad, either in the office or during hands-on projects, which could see you gain experience working with underprivileged communities or on conservation work. Varied, fulfilling and challenging, it is a great career choice for a range of graduates with different skills and attributes.

What roles are open to me?
Some of the roles open to you within the charity industry include:
• Charity Fundraiser
• Charity Officer
• International Aid/Development Worker
• Volunteer Coordinator
• Community Development Worker
• Volunteer Coordinator
• Social Researcher
• Marketing Executive
• Youth Worker

What qualifications and skills do I need?
Graduates
The type of degree you need depends on the role you wish to apply for. For example, if you want to be a teacher or doctor on an international project, you will need a specific degree, training and experience. For other roles, a good degree in any subject will be beneficial, although subjects that are particularly well regarded include logistics, public health, social policy, finance, management, marketing and PR. On top of your degree, employers look for skills including communication and negotiation skills, commitment, dependability, flexibility, multitasking skills and the ability to work well both individually and in a team. Relevant work experience is also highly valued - there are many internships and voluntary roles available that are a great way to gain experience and get the edge over the competition when it comes to applying for graduate roles.

Non-graduates
This is an excellent sector for non-graduates as there are a large number of roles that do not require a degree. These include internships, fundraising and administration. Volunteering is also a popular entry route, as although you won’t get paid, you’ll get the opportunity to develop the skills and experience you need to secure a paid role and progress your career in the sector. As with graduate roles, in addition to hands-on experience employers will be looking for a range of abilities including communication and organisational skills, adaptability, motivation and enthusiasm.

Training Opportunities
In addition to internship and volunteering opportunities, throughout your career you may benefit from training courses to enhance your skills in a way that’s of benefit to the charity you work for. These may include courses in negotiation skills, charitable law and fundraising.
Application Process
The application process varies depending on the role and charity you’re applying for. In general however, it will follow some or all of the steps below.
• Online application form
• Interview
• Assessment day
• Second interview
• Offer

Are there any downsides?
Aside from a fairly low starting salary compared to some other industries, there are some downsides to working in the charity industry, including dealing with legislation and bureaucracy, competition within the sector itself and the need to balance an ethical approach with strong business skills, whilst maintaining the reputation of the charity within the public eye. On an individual basis, working in charity can be stressful and can, in some cases, carry some risk, especially if you’re an aid worker sent to less-developed or war-torn areas.

Is it right for me?
A career in the charity sector can be incredibly rewarding, diverse and exciting. You’ll have the opportunity to make a real difference to your community and even the wider world, work with a range of like-minded people with different skills sets and interest, and you may even have the opportunity to work and gain experience abroad.

Consulting
Consultancy is the provision of advice, recommendations and strategies to businesses, with the aim of increasing their efficiency and productivity. These services can be provided either by a professional services firm with a consultancy arm, or by a specialist consultancy firm.
Overall, there are two different kinds of consulting: Advisory and Consultancy. Advisory is when a consultancy or professional services firm provides advice and recommendations to a client, but does not carry out the work required to make these recommended changes on their behalf. For example, the firm may recommend that the client installs new budgetary control systems and will advise on the best ones for their business needs, but it will not install them for the client. If a client requests an advisory service, they will be charged a one-off fee and can ignore or follow the suggested solutions as required.
Consultancy is different, inasmuch as the firm not only provides recommendations, but also carries out these changes on behalf of the client e.g. recommending the client installs new software, and then sourcing and installing the software itself on their behalf.

The Different Fields of Consultancy
There are many different consultancy firms and they all specialise in supplying different services for a range of industries. These specialisations can be broken down into ten fields, with most firms choosing to specialise in one, several or, in some case, all of the fields below:
• Strategy Consultancy
• Operational Consultancy
• Marketing Consultancy
• Financial Consultancy
• Human Resources Consultancy
• Technology Consultancy
• Applications Consultancy
• Environmental Management Consultancy
• Quality Management Consultancy
• Outsourcing Consultancy
As a result, a career in consultancy will see you working with a range of different clients and, in some cases, providing a diverse range of services. This is especially true as consultancy is generally contract-based, which means that tasks, locations and clients vary from week-to-week and month-to-month, making it an exciting and dynamic career for new graduates.

What roles are open to me?
Graduates who choose a career in consultancy generally start as analysts or associates. Tasks vary depending on the field and the company you work for, and you will often have a range of interesting responsibilities including complex analysis, research and preparing client presentation materials.
That said, you will also be tasked with less exciting work, such as documentation. As you gain experience you’ll have the opportunity to develop into more senior roles or go freelance, a move that can be extremely lucrative. Many consultants also go on to start their own businesses and startups.
Major Companies
Major consultancy firms include McKinsey & Company, the Boston Consulting Group, Bain & Company and Booz Allen Hamilton. There are also many major professional services companies with a consultancy department, such as PricewaterhouseCoopers, Deloitte, KPMG and Ernst & Young.

What qualifications and skills do I need?
Graduates
Graduates normally need a 2:1 degree. Many firms are keen on management, economics and business degrees, though all subjects are eligible. Competition is tough for graduate roles and, outside of academic qualifications, employers will be looking for a real passion and interest in the industry. As a result, your application will be looked on more favourably if you can demonstrate experience of internships, work placements or extra-curricular activities related to the field.

Non-Graduates
Although it is undoubtedly easier to break into consultancy with a degree, there are some entry-level positions and apprenticeships available for school leavers. Again, it is important that you’re able to demonstrate a real interest and passion for the field when applying, and that you mention any relevant skills and/or work experience in your application.

Training Opportunities
Training is an important aspect of any consultancy career. While professional qualifications are not generally offered, graduate roles will normally incorporate a three to four-week training course at the start. As your career progresses, you will also reap the benefits of frequent training programmes and development courses.

Application Process
The application process varies depending on the company, but will generally follow three steps:
• Application form
• Online assessments
• First interview
• Assessment day
• Final interview
• Offer

Are there any downsides?
Although consultancy is an exciting, challenging and highly rewarding career, there are some downsides. Frequent travel may mean spending protracted periods away from family and friends (at least during the week) and long hours and weekend work are not uncommon.
As you’ll generally be working on a contract-by-contract basis, it can also be hard to plan time outside of work, as you will rarely know what you’ll be doing and where you’ll be working more than a few months (or weeks) in advance. In addition, while you may find many of the projects extremely inspiring, you will not generally be able to pick and choose those you work on - at least until you reach a senior level.

Is it right for me?
To enjoy and excel in a career in consultancy, you’ll need to have excellent communication and analytical skills, be a strong team player and be comfortable working under pressure. You’ll also need to be flexible enough to cope with changing working hours, locations and contracts, and be comfortable leading a team - a trait that is especially important for progression to senior roles.
If you have all that, plus the passion and drive to succeed in one of the most competitive professional services industries around, consultancy could be the perfect career for you.

Education
From primary school to secondary school, college and university, the Education industry encompasses a wide range of fields, roles and subjects. Traditionally one of the most popular sectors for new graduates, the benefits of a career in education are numerous and include good starting salaries, excellent annual leave entitlement and rewarding work.

What roles are open to me?
There are many roles available within the education industry.
The include:
• Teaching Assistant
• Early Years Teacher
• Primary School Teacher
• Secondary School Teacher
• Further Education Teacher
• Lecturer
• Special Educational Needs Tutor
• Private Tutor
• Educational Administrator
• Hospital Teacher
• Youth Worker

Major Companies
Major employers include TDA (Training and Development Agency for Schools), Teach First, TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign language), TESOL (Teaching English as a Second Language), Department for Education, local education authorities and a range of private schools and universities.

What qualifications and skills do I need?
Graduates
To teach in the public sector, you will need to have completed an initial teacher training programme or course (ITT) in order to gain qualified teacher status (QTS). The quickest way to get QTS is by studying a BEd (Bachelor of Education). You could also pursue a Postgraduate Certificate of Education (PGCE) or a Graduate Teacher Programme (GTP), if your degree is in the subject you wish to teach. Employers also look for relevant skills such as a passion for your subject, leadership, good communication skills, patience, enthusiasm and organisational skills.

Non-graduates
As a non-graduate, you can apply for an entry-level tutor role, especially if you have previous experience tutoring specific subjects. Another option is to apply as a teaching assistant. Both these roles give you an entry-way into the education industry from where you can develop your skills and progress your career. As with graduate roles, employers will also look for additional qualities including communication and leadership skills and a real interest in the subject you wish to teach.

Training Opportunities
Throughout your PGCE, BEd or GTP you’ll be mentored by experienced teachers and gain hands-on experience in the classroom. During your career, you’ll also have regular training courses to ensure your skills and knowledge remain current.

Application Process
The application process will generally follow the steps below:
• Online application form
• Interview
• Trial lesson
• Offer

Are there any downsides?
Despite being immensely rewarding, there are several disadvantages to a career in teaching, including large classroom sizes, budget cuts, lack of parental involvement and a lot of paperwork. You’ll also have to deal with a heavy teaching schedule and workload, and may have to teach unambitious, unmotivated or rowdy students, which can be frustrating.

Is it right for me?
Despite the downsides, there are many upsides to a career in teaching, not least a competitive salary and circa 10 weeks paid holiday per year. In addition to this, you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing you’re helping inspire and educate your students, making a difference in their lives and giving them the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.

Energy
The Energy industry is ever-expanding and comprises a range of energy sources, including oil, gas, petroleum, nuclear power, waste management and water.
Roles in this industry range from the sourcing, extracting and selling of oil to others dealing with solar power, wind, electricity, gas and waste management - making it an interesting career choice for graduates from a variety of backgrounds.

What roles are open to me?
There are a huge range of roles available, all of which deal with different energy sources and aspects of the industry.
These include:
• Drilling Engineer
• Environmental Consultant
• Energy Manager
• Geochemist
• Geoscientist
• Hydrographic Surveyor
• Mining Engineer
• Petroleum Manager
• Quarry Manager
• Seismic Interpreter
• Waste Management Officer
• Water Engineer
• Wellsite Geologist

Major Companies
Royal Dutch Shell, Chevron Corp, Total SA, Exxon Mobil Corp Petrobras Brasiliero.
What qualifications and skills do I need?

Graduates
The requirements vary depending on which aspect of the industry you wish to work in. For technical roles, such as Water Engineer or Geochemist, you’ll need an accredited degree in a specific discipline and may also need a postgraduate qualification for roles in certain areas, such as geoscience. For roles in energy marketing, HR and sales, you’ll generally need a 2:1 in any discipline, while for finance roles a degree in maths, business or economics may be required.
In addition to your degree, employers look for attributes including strong analytical and problem-solving skills, technical knowledge, teamwork, project management skills, flexibility and adaptability. Many companies also like to see evidence of work experience, either as part of your degree (on a sandwich placement) or through an internship or summer placement, which are widely available throughout the industry.

Non-graduates
Although a degree is required for some roles, there are a number of opportunities for school leavers including apprenticeships and school-leaver programmes in areas as diverse as gas installation engineering, customer service or administration. If you wish to undertake a degree and advance your career in a more specialist area, such as renewable energy or geoscience, some major companies will even sponsor your studies, giving you the chance to advance your career at no extra cost to you.

Training Opportunities
Once you’re employed in the industry, some companies will offer support to study a Masters to enhance your skills and knowledge - even paying some or all of the fees. In addition, engineers may receive support and training to achieve chartered status, while those employed in other fields may benefit from on-the-job training and development to keep their skills and knowledge up-to-date.

Application Process
The application process varies depending on the company and role you're applying for, but should follow some or all of the steps below:
• Online application form
• Online testing (technical or engineering roles)
• Interview
• Assessment day
• Final interview
• Offer

Are there any downsides?
One of the well-known downsides of a career in energy is the need to relocate - many industries have hubs in remote locations or offshore oil rigs, which can see you working away from home for extended periods. Working in the industry can also be stressful as projects are often deadline dependent (with high financial stakes). In addition to this, work can be physically demanding and sometimes dangerous, and following safety protocol is a top priority.

Is it right for me?
Aside from excellent earning potential, a career in the energy industry can give you the opportunity to work on ground-breaking research, projects and developments, often with far-reaching, even global effects. If you choose a career in renewable energy, you’ll also be at the forefront of the fight to cut greenhouse gas emissions and global warming, helping preserve the planet and developing sustainable energy sources and technology for future generations.

HR

Human Resources (HR) is the organisation and management of employees on behalf of a business. This can involve representing staff’s interests alongside that of the business, ensuring employees adhere to the guidelines and codes of conduct laid out by the company, and mediating between the business and its employees to ensure the rights of both are respected.
HR encompasses a wide range of responsibilities including:
• Company guidelines
• Occupational Health
• Payroll
• Recruitment
• Staff training and development
• Performance evaluation and management
• Redundancy
Interesting and often financially lucrative, a career in HR can span a range of industries and use a wide range of skills, making it an exciting and rewarding option for new graduates.

What roles are open to me?
If you’re interested in HR and Recruitment, there are a number of career options open to you. These include:
• HR Advisor
• Consultant
• Administrator
• Learning and Development Manager
• Head of HR
• Healthy and Safety Officer

Graduate or entry-level roles in HR often lead to progression into more senior roles such as Senior HR Manager or HR Director. As HR is a vital component of every industry, you’ll have the opportunity to work across a wide range of fields, from IT and finance to marketing and construction. What’s more, as a global industry, your skills will also be transferable and highly valued, should you wish to seek opportunities to work abroad.

Major Companies
Most major companies and organisations have an internal HR department - from government bodies and NGOs to major retail companies, publishers and banks.

What qualifications and skills do I need?
Graduates
Graduates will normally need a 2:1 degree. Although you do not need to have studied a specific discipline, some companies give preference to candidates with degrees in subjects such as business, finance, HR and management. You will also need to display excellent communication and interpersonal skills, good organisation, the ability to meet deadlines and work as part of a team - all key attributes for a role in HR.

Non-Graduates
Many companies offer entry level roles and internships in HR. As above, employers will want to see evidence of core competencies including communication skills, numeracy and the ability to organise your workload and meet deadlines. Administration skills are also of vital importance, and work experience in an administrative role will probably be looked on favourably by employers.

Training Opportunities
A career in HR generally involves on-the-job training, and you will often be expected to work towards a professional qualification during that time, such as those offered by the CIPD and CIPM.
Application Process
The application process varies depending on the company. Large companies may have a more in-depth interview process than smaller companies, with steps similar to these:
• Online application form
• Initial telephone interview
• Face-to-face interview
• Assessment day
• Offer
Smaller companies may have a simplified application process that follows some of the aforementioned steps.

Are there any downsides?
A role in HR can be demanding. Dealing with unhappy workers or delivering news of redundancy can be difficult, and mediating between the business and employees can be stressful and time-consuming. As a result, you’ll need to develop a thick skin without losing your people skills and ability to empathise.

Is it right for me?
A career in HR can be very rewarding, both professionally and financially. Opportunities for progression and promotion are plentiful and your salary will generally increase in line with your skills and experience. You’ll also be in the position to help colleagues and co-workers develop and reach their professional potential, which can be extremely satisfying. If you’re well organised, have good communication skills and enjoy working as part of a team, it could be the ideal career for you.

Insurance
Insurance is how individuals and companies limit the financial impact of risk to their home, property, person or business activities. Essentially, insurance operates in a simple way, whereby a large number of businesses or individuals pay a fixed sum - or premium - into a fund in order to insure themselves against potential risk. When they suffer damage to their property, person or business e.g. an accident, they make a claim to their insurance provider. This claim is then assessed and, providing it is upheld, the insurance company make a payment from these funds to compensate the client for the loss or accident they have suffered.

Equally important to individuals as it is to business, the insurance industry can be split into five main sectors:
• General insurance
• Commercial/corporate insurance
• Life insurance
• Personal insurance
• Reinsurance
And seven main areas:
• Aviation
• Liability
• Life
• Marine
• Motor
• Property
• Pensions
Despite its reputation as ‘boring’, a career in insurance can see you working across a number of different industries and performing a range of tasks. As a result, it is often an exciting and dynamic career choice for new graduates.

What roles are open to me?
Insurance covers a wide range of roles, from analysing and calculating risks to selling policies, setting premiums and processing claims. Most graduate positions will be within actuary, insurance broking, loss adjustment or underwriting. Common roles include claims management trainee, trainee actuary, trainee loss adjuster, graduate underwriter, graduate insurance broker and graduate product manager. There are also a number of graduate roles available in operations management and support functions, such as IT, HR and marketing.

What qualifications and skills do I need?
Graduates
For entry onto a graduate training programme you will generally need a 2:1 degree, although some companies will consider a 2:2. Many roles accept degrees of all disciplines, although preference may be given to degrees in maths or engineering, especially for actuary roles. A business or management degree may also be looked on favourably.
In addition to your degree, you’ll need to demonstrate a range of skills including attention to detail, customer service skills and numeracy.
Training Opportunities
Most insurance companies invest in the professional development of their staff and encourage their employees to take advantage of on-the-job training. This may include placements in different departments to widen your skills and experience, mentoring from senior staff or training designed to fast-track your progression into a management role .
Popular qualifications include the Certificate in Insurance, Diploma in Insurance and Advanced Diploma in Insurance, all of which are awarded by the Chartered Insurance Institute. To boost your career even further, you could also consider applying for fellowship to the Chartered Insurance Institute. To do this, you’ll need to show at least three years’ worth of evidence of continued professional development as well as a 3,500 word dissertation.
Application Process
The application process for different insurance roles and companies varies, but most will follow the steps below:
• CV and covering letter or online application form
• Standard aptitude and psychometric tests (numerical and verbal reasoning)
• Telephone interview
• Assessment Centre
• Final interview

Are there any downsides?
Often labelled as boring, one of the major downsides to working in insurance is its reputation. Work can be high pressure, and you may occasionally be expected to work overtime or at the weekend, although this is not common. Depending on the department you work in, you may have to deal with frustrated customers when their claim is rejected, and tasks can be repetitive.

Is it right for me?
Despite negative preconceptions about the industry, a career in insurance can be dynamic, challenging and rewarding. A vital part of the international economy, the chances of redundancy or unemployment are significantly lower than in other industries. Financial rewards are good and you’ll receive continued on-the-job training, enhancing your career prospects and salary.
Depending on the role, you’ll have a varied and interesting workload, and will also have the opportunity to work across a wide range of industries and forge relationships with a variety of clients, from individuals to multinational corporations. You’ll also have the satisfaction of knowing you’re contributing positively to society by helping individuals and businesses plan, deal and recover from hardship.

Investment Banking

The banking field can be split into three sectors: retail, trading and investment. Retail banking (high-street banking) generally involves working for high-street banks such as Lloyds, Natwest and Barclays, often in-branch. Trading (or foreign exchange) involves buying and selling goods and services in foreign currencies.
Investment banking involves helping clients - corporations, individuals and even the government - raise financial capital by underwriting and issuing securities. It can also involve the provision of other services, such as private wealth management, professional advisory services and working with mergers and acquisitions. Each of the different sectors offers a range of opportunities and career paths; the information below focuses on investment banking.

What roles are open to me?
If you’re keen to enter investment banking, there are a range of career paths open to you. Investment banks house a large number of different departments, from Finance and Compliance to Merchant Banking, Private Equity and Information Risk Management. The different roles are divided into front, middle and back office. Front office roles are client-facing roles that generate revenue. Middle office roles deal with compliance, rules and regulations. Back office positions are generally support roles such as operations, HR and secretarial. Graduates with a BA generally apply for analyst positions, while those with an MBA will often apply for associate roles.

Major Companies
Major companies include Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Deutsche Bank and Citigroup.

What qualifications and skills do I need?
Graduates
All graduates entering investment banking will generally need a 2:1 degree. Although some investment banks are very keen on applicants with degrees in a related field such as maths, business or finance, many actively encourage graduates from other, seemingly unrelated subjects. Work experience will also stand you in very good stead, especially if you can display experience relevant to the role you are applying for.

Non-Graduates
Although there are some entry-level roles in banking for those without a degree, the world of investment banking is fiercely competitive and securing a position is unlikely without one.

Training Opportunities
Investment banking graduate programmes are essentially training on-the-job. The kind of training you receive varies from bank to bank. Some banks will immediately assign you a role and you’ll be expected to develop within that role. Others offer broad training across different roles, which helps candidates develop a better understanding of the entire division before specialising.

Application Process
The application process varies depending on the investment bank in question, but generally follows the steps below:
• Application form including aptitude tests
• Telephone interview (may be strength or competency-based)
• Assessment centre aptitude tests (may include role plays and group exercises)
• Final interview

Are there any downsides?
Investment banks are open 24/7. As a result, bankers typically work extremely long hours, sometimes 100+ a week (although this is an extreme case). The workload is intense and competition fierce, so you’ll need to have a thick skin and be happy to work in a very high-pressure environment.

Is it right for me?
Investment banking can be a richly rewarding career, both in terms of financial rewards and job satisfaction. If you thrive under pressure, have a strong character and can handle long hours and a heavy workload, it could be the perfect industry for you.

IT & Technology
One of the fastest growing sectors in the business world, IT and technology provides an indispensable service to almost every industry, from fashion to finance. As a result, it’s increasingly rare to find a company - big or small - without an IT department, which range in size from a handful of personnel to a hundred. Constantly evolving, the sector encompasses a diverse range of roles and skills, although these generally fall into six categories:
• Programming
• IT service provision
• Business change and project management
• Strategy and planning
• Procurement and management support
• IT ancillary skills
With so many different roles, the sector offers a diverse range of career paths, from consultancy and coding to cyber security, making it one of the most accessible, interesting and secure industries for new graduates.

What roles are open to me?
If you’re interested in IT and technology, there’s a wide range of career paths to choose from. App development and cyber security are increasingly important sectors, while business-focused system design is also a popular field.
As a general rule, graduate roles tend to focus on IT service provision and programming/development, with candidates diversifying into managerial, strategic and consultancy roles as they gain experience. Some examples of popular roles include:
• App Developer
• Hardware Engineer
• IT Analyst
• IT Consultant
• IT Technical Support
• Software Design/development
• Systems Administrator
• Systems Design
• Web Design
Once they’ve gained experience, many candidates choose to become contractors, enabling them to work on different projects for a range of companies. Others will develop into senior roles within one company. As IT skills are transferable and, in general, globally recognised, there are also many opportunities to work and develop your career abroad.

Major Companies
Although most companies have an IT department, there are some major IT and technology companies that are particularly famous, such as Apple, Microsoft, Dell, IBM, Samsung and Sony.
In recent years, the ever-expanding number of technology startups has added a new dimension to the industry.

What qualifications and skills do I need?
Graduates
Graduates will normally need a degree in electronic engineering or computing to secure a place on a graduate scheme, though conversion courses exist for those with degrees in other disciplines. Many employers will also want to see that you’re informed about new developments in the industry, so it’s important to keep up to date and to expand your skills set wherever possible.

Non-graduates
IT and technology is one of the best industries for non-graduates to break into, and there are many entry-level roles and apprenticeships available for school leavers. As with graduates, it’s important that you’re able to demonstrate a strong interest in the sector, and work experience or an internship will stand you in good stead with future employers.

Training Opportunities
As a constantly evolving industry, the opportunities for training within IT and technology are not only numerous, they are essential. As a result, many companies offer employees the opportunity to study for professional qualifications linked to their role, to ensure they keep up to speed with new developments and can advance their skills set in line with new innovations.

Application Process
The application process varies depending on the company. One of the most rigorous is Microsoft, which follows the steps below:
• Application form
• Screening interview
• Technical interview
• Interview day - multiple back-to-back interviews
• Offer
Other companies have a simplified application process that follows steps similar to these:
• Application form
• Aptitude tests
• Interviews (multiple)
• Offer

Are there any downsides?
Often seen as boring, the IT and technology industry is actually one of the most forward-thinking and innovative sectors around. Aside from this negative preconception, downsides can include long hours and a heavy workload. Many jobs also require an extremely specific, non-negotiable skills set, which can rule out many candidates.

Is it right for me?
From graphic design to technical support, if you’re technologically minded and passionate about new innovations in the field, there’s probably a job that’s right for you. While long hours and a high-pressure workload won’t suit everyone, competitive pay, great prospects and the opportunity to innovate using up-to-the-minute technology are all big draws to the field.

Law
Careers within the legal sector can generally be split into two branches: solicitors and barristers. That said, there are an increasing number of different opportunities within the field, including apprenticeships and executive roles.
The sector encompasses many different areas including criminal law, financial law, human rights law and the ever-expanding field of intellectual property law, and you’ll have the opportunity to specialise in the sector(s) that most interest you. You’ll also have the chance to work across a range of industries and with a variety of clients. If you think you might be interested in a career in law, you can find out more below.

What roles are open to me?
The legal profession is becoming more diverse in terms of careers and the range of opportunities on offer. Common career paths include:
• Solicitor. Provides clients with legal advice and assistance, and represents them in and out of the lower courts (tribunals, magistrates' courts and county courts).
• Barrister. Specialises in advocacy and presents client cases in court. In contrast to solicitors, barristers are rarely instructed directly by the client. Instead, they are instructed by solicitors to advise on specific legal issues, provide advocacy or prepare legal documents.
• Chartered Legal Executive. Fulfils many of the same roles as a solicitor. The main difference is that a Chartered Legal Executive specialises in only one area of the law.
• Paralegal. Also known as a legal assistant, a paralegal has completed certain legal training but has not qualified as a Chartered Legal Executive or Solicitor. Tasks range from administrative and secretarial tasks to taking witness statements.

What qualifications and skills do I need?
Graduates
Graduate applicants will need a legal qualification and good academic record to gain entry into a graduate scheme or job. To be a solicitor you’ll require an LPC (Legal Practitioner Course); to become a barrister you’ll need a BPTC (Bar Professional Training Course). These qualifications are obtained by studying a law degree, so if you studied another subject you’ll need to complete a conversion course.

Non-Graduates
To pursue a career in law, non-graduates will generally need a specific degree. That said, there are some apprenticeships and entry-level positions that are open to those without a degree. They will also give you the experience you need to gain a place on a law degree course (which is vital for a long-term career in law).

Training Opportunities
All training is completed before you qualify as a solicitor or barrister.

Application Process
The application process varies depending on the role in question, but will generally follow the steps below:
• Application form
• Psychometric tests
• Assessment centre aptitude tests (may include a competency-based interview and various numerical, verbal and analytical exercises)
• Partner interview

Are there any downsides?
A career in law can be high-pressure and, in some cases, emotionally draining. Long hours, late nights and being on call at weekends or bank holidays are common, and it can be difficult to strike a healthy work-life balance. That said, it can also be an immensely rewarding, diverse and exciting career, with excellent financial rewards.

Is it right for me?
To excel in law you’ll not only need good academic qualifications, you’ll also need excellent communication skills and be able to understand, empathise and communicate well with your clients, witnesses and other members of the law profession. In addition, you’ll need to be capable of presenting information to a wide range of people, have strong analytical skills, and be comfortable working in a (sometimes very) high-pressure environment.

Manufacturing
Manufacturing is the process of turning raw materials into goods. Closely linked to engineering, it covers a wide range of sectors and careers, with the UK manufacturing industry alone contributing 6.7 trillion to the global economy.
With such a range of sectors and roles on offer, it is one of the most profitable and diverse industries for new graduates today.

What roles are open to me?
From fashion to flutes, some of the hundreds of roles in manufacturing include:
• Construction Plant Mechanic
• Dressmaker
• Food Packaging Operative
• French Polisher
• Garment Technologist
• Hydrographic Surveyor
• Glassmaker
• Measurement and Control Technician
• Meat Process Worker
• Model Maker
• Musical Instrument Maker
• Patent Attorney
• Plumber
• Product Designer
• Quarry Operative
• Rail Track Maintenance Worker
• Recycled Metals Worker
• Signwriter
• Steel Erector
• Studio Sound Engineer
• Technical Brewer
• Textile Dyeing Technician
• TV or Film Sound Technician
• Welder

Major Companies
Manufacturing is a vital industry for most companies. Major companies include Nestle, Toyota, Ford, Apple, Cardinal Health, Panasonic, Procter & Gamble, ThyssenKrupp, Bosch, Sony, PepsiCo, Johnson & Johnson, Unilever, Saint-Gobain, Kraft Foods, Hoffman-La Roche, LG Electronics, Coca-Cola, Continental, Kia Motors, Christina Dior, Tyson Foods, Michelin, Fujifilm, Danone and International Paper.

What qualifications and skills do I need?
Graduates
The qualifications and degree required varies from role to role. Generally, you will need a good degree in a related discipline, although some roles may focus more heavily on practical skills, creativity and experience than qualifications. In addition to your degree, every employer will be looking for skills relevant to the role, which may include communication and interpersonal skills, excellent organisation, time management, problem solving and presentation skills, as well as technical knowledge and creativity. Work experience or an internship in a field or company related to the sector you wish to enter will also be beneficial.

Training Opportunities
In addition to apprenticeships or internships, you may also benefit from on-the-job training sponsored or supported by your employer, although this depends on the role and sector you wish to enter, as well as the company itself.

Application Process
The application process varies greatly from role to role. For some roles, you may have a reasonably simple application process that requires you to complete an online application and an interview. For others, you may have a multi-stage application process that includes several interviews, tests and assessments. Generally, every role will include some or all of the steps below:
• Online application form
• Initial telephone interview
• Assessment day
• First interview
• Second interview
• Offer

Are there any downsides?
Many of the non-technical roles in manufacturing have a low starting salary compared to other industries, and some tasks can be repetitive. Other downsides vary depending on the role in question.

Is it right for me?
With such a wide variety of roles, sectors and companies involved in manufacturing, there is a career that will suit almost every graduate.

Marketing & PR

Marketing and PR focus on presenting information about a company, event or person in a way designed to improve or alter their image and appeal. Closely linked, both are vital to a wide range of companies that rely on the industry to market their products and services and boost profitability and brand image.

Most companies will have a marketing and PR department, regardless of the sector. Although their roles are different, many major companies will have an integrated marketing and PR department, where the two work hand-in-hand to promote the brand, for example with press releases about new products. They also work to protect companies from negative publicity, limiting the damage done to the company’s reputation. There are also specialist marketing and PR agencies that perform the same functions but work with a number of clients across a range of sectors, as opposed to just one.

An ever-expanding industry, marketing and PR is an exciting and rewarding sector for new graduates. Encompassing fields such as advertising, design, editorial, production and digital marketing, there are a wide range of roles to choose from. You’ll also have the chance to work on a range of exciting and interesting projects and with a number of different clients and sectors - from sports shoes to sandwiches.


What roles are open to me?
If you’re keen on a career in marketing and PR, there are a range of roles on offer.

These include:

Marketing Assistant
Marketing Communications Coordinator
Marketing Manager
PR Assistant
PR Specialist
PR Manager
Communications Manager
Marketing Executive
Digital Marketing Specialist
Designer
Marketing Copywriter
Artworker
Creative Director
Head of Marketing

What qualifications and skills do I need?
Graduates
Generally you will need a good degree in any discipline, although some companies do prefer a degree in a marketing-related subject. In addition to your degree, you’ll need to display key skills such as communication and organisational skills, teamwork, creativity, excellent time management, presentation skills and a real passion for the company and brand. Related work experience, such as an internship, will also be an advantage.

Training Opportunities
Many companies will give you the opportunity to undertake courses in relevant subjects throughout your career and as part of graduate training schemes, to ensure you keep up-to-date with new developments in the industry. Your company may also offer support if you wish to study a professional marketing qualification through bodies such as the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) or the Institute of Direct and Digital Marketing (IDM).

Application Process
The application process depends on the role and company you apply for, but should follow some or all of the steps below:

Online application form
Initial telephone interview
Face-to-face interview - this may involve showing a portfolio of work or undertaking a writing or design test, depending on the role you’re applying for
Offer

Are there any downsides?
Although generally a 9am - 5pm role, you may have to work evenings and weekends if you have a big deadline or a client event. As a results-driven industry, the workload can be heavy and stressful, especially when working on major or integrated campaigns that involve the delivery of lots of different elements. You may also have to liaise with demanding clients and spend a lot of time travelling between client offices.

Is it right for me?
A career in marketing and PR can be a dynamic and exciting choice. If you’re keen on a role that combines your creative, communication and organisational skills and allows you to see the direct impact your work has on the reputation and profits of your company or client, it could be the perfect choice for you.

Bravo!
You just eulogized me.

I'm a guy, late 20s, NCE holder n B.sc Economics in view.
I'm good at Data Entry & Analysis, My SQL - Database Mgt
I have a commercial banking experience.
The nylon packing company I was working with shutdown without a prenotification.
Why waiting for the dream job, I was learning soft skills online.

Main point now, based on the information have consumed, I noticed accounting qualifications are extremely selling.Now am blaming myself for not attending polytechnic.
I felt the way I could correct this error is to enrol for ICAN but I now have passion for Computer Programming although, getting the knowledge is exreenly tasking because I do not have the money to pay at the training centres and the only option is to patronise the free online forums.
Now am confuse on which basket to invest my eggs, in accounting field/Programming?


Another one.
I felt discriminated each time I see employment advert online, after reading the bottom, I see OND/HND only. In fact, I featured in a recruitment process at Ibadan and I happens to be one of the chosen ones. After the induction, we were told to fill an ID Card slip and we specified our preferred location.
I saw the offer as a "clear shot" and I was happy I didn't miss.
I went back to Lagos packing my things and rejoysing for a favour from God because it was a prime time for me to attend to all my academic plans, I waited for weeks and months but the deployment text didn't come in, I decided to follow up saying maybe the message is floating somewhere, then I got the update that a boss in "X" department of "X" bank rejected the NCE holders saying what they want as bank teller is either OND/HND.
I thought it was a joke that how would a reputable consulting firm make that kind of mistake. I decided to pray n pray, guess what;
...we were never called.
Aside that, over 4 bank teller job passed by I could not do anything all because they kept on playing the same jamz saying OND/HND alone.
My question now, as an HR officer, what do you think should be considered priority, is it the qualification or the skills?
I think the consulting firm too need to educate the bank management too on the need to maintain equal opportunity.
I have been affected, what about the upcoming generation.
I wish to send a mail to COEASU but yet to get the email address.