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Well, it is possible that you could compete if you can higlight that you have the relevent skills and experience, but if the recruiter is being so blind as to say that without a first they won't consider you then thats your answer. Apply for less 'elite' positions, get the experience you need to get to senior or project leader level and you can apply for these positions within the 'elite' company, if you still want to! Your degree classification shouldn't matter after a few years experience.
Posted by: Neal | 22/04/2010 at 09:06 AM
You are putting yourself down, and out of the race, before you start! A 1st does not mean its holder is anything special. They might have just played the system well, and 'BINGO'-'do not pass/go, I've got a first'.
Basically, it's you, your qualities, your thinking processes, your USPs; a bag full of 'A' grades, etc, can just be the result of excellent spoon-feeding, no originality, or new ideas....
Posted by: Sean | 22/04/2010 at 01:25 PM
T.S, in the current economic climate, employers are very selective in who they pick & choose as there are so many candidates out there chasing so few jobs. I thought most would look at 1st and 2:1's? Anyway, so they want the best and my way of countering this view is getting the experience (and additional exp, knowledge) both from work and doing volunteer work for charities that utilise your skills & look good on your CV. I'm in the Thames Valley area also, work in finance & studying CIMA managerial stage papers. Employers are not giving me a look in as they know that they would need to fund my studies which costs additional money. If you have experience from Uni or Industrial placement, build on this rather than starting from scratch as it would be more difficult to get your foot in the door. If not, they do temp work to get something on your CV, doors will start to open up. Best of luck.
Posted by: magic | 25/04/2010 at 02:13 AM