A report has found that people who previously undertook apprenticeships and training with an employer have a much higher chance of successfully applying for graduate jobs.

The report, conducted by High Fliers Research, found that more than a third of jobs created for new graduates were being taken by those who had previously undertaken training with the same employer. Although the report found that there would be a 6 percent more graduate entry jobs available in 2012 compared to 2011 figures, the report also found a 19 percent average increase in applications, illustrating the difficulty of gaining a foothold on the jobs market in the current economic climate.

Paul Davis, managing director of Perspective, commented: “These statistics illustrate the importance of undertaking training or work experience. With so much competition for available jobs young people must take advantage of any opportunities to ensure they are in a suitable position when they come to finishing their education and look to enter the jobs market.” 

In light of this, young people yet to enter the jobs market are being encouraged to undertake apprenticeships or training where possible. With unemployment for 18-24-year-olds having reached the one million mark last year, training not only helps increase the chances of finding work with the same employer at a later date, but also heightens the possibility of standing out to other employers against other job applicants.