Where better to get information about the technology industry than from one of our exhibitors? Below is some great information from SunGard on how to break into this competitive sector AND how to approach applications and interviews.

Check out the website too for some information on opportunities at SunGard and employee profiles – the inside scoop on working in the technology industry from the people who know it best!

Five top tips for breaking into the Technology Industry:

1. Don’t rule yourself out. You can still apply if you don’t have a technical degree as there are many opportunities available for non-technical graduates. The technology industry offered a diverse range of careers with opportunities ranging from Sales and Marketing to Consulting and Project Management.
2. Be a problem solver. The technology industry is all about looking for solutions to make things faster and easier, whether this is a bug in a line of code or a business problem relating to productivity.
3. Creativity is key. It is a very fast moving industry and the only way to stay ahead of the competition is through innovation. Your ideas could become products or services that are used around the world!
4. Keep your options open. Your skills can be transferable across a number of different careers in technology so keep your mind open to the different options available.
5. Do your research. Demonstrate your motivation to joining the industry. Do your research and keep up to date with developments in the industry.
Advice for applicants:

• We look for individuals who can bring something new to the organisation and take a fresh, creative, entrepreneurial approach to solving problems. The most important characteristics you can demonstrate are motivation, enthusiasm and a proactive, can-do attitude.
• Recruiters can immediately see if someone has taken the time to personalise their application. Don’t regurgitate a company’s key selling points word for word from their website – do a bit of extra research and define what it is about that company that makes you want to work for them.
• If you are uncertain about the dress code, phone the employer and double check before your interview. There is nothing worse than turning up in trainers and a jumper when everyone else is suited and booted!
• First impressions do count – a smile and a firm handshake will get you off to a good start. Back this up by demonstrating that you’re well prepared: read up on the company, practise your answers with a friend and think of questions to ask at the end of the interview.
• Interviewers want to see that you are genuinely interested in the opportunity, so ensure that your body language and questions convey this attitude. Don’t sit back in your chair and fidget but instead lean slightly forward and make eye contact.
• Most interviews are competence based so prepare a few examples of when you have demonstrated skills relevant to the placement. It helps if you ask yourself “what do I want the interviewer to know about me?” and think of examples that demonstrate these qualities. Beware of sounding over prepared and mechanical though. Assessors can’t get to know you if you just parrot back textbook answers.

(Sacha de Klerk, graduate resourcing manager at SunGard)
SunGard are just one of the employers at Graduate Select next week – check out the website for the full list!

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www.gradselect.co.uk