Employer Expectations: Key Takeaways from UOWD's Career Fair

Tuesday, 02 April, 2024

We recently hosted our bi-annual Career Fair, offering UOWD students the chance to connect with prospective employers from sectors like finance, engineering, marketing, and technology. Over 45 companies participated in the event, including Andersen UAE, Danfoss, Help AG, Philip Morris International, Signify, and Transguard Group., and shortlisted students for job openings and internship opportunities.

Employers at the fair revealed their preference for graduates who have a solid academic background and possess the right mindset of growth and adaptability. Soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, and leadership, alongside technical know-how, are increasingly valued by employers. Sunil Bhalla, Director – Technology & Services at Misdaqia Technologies, stated: "In the evolving landscape of technology, we prioritise candidates who exhibit a positive outlook and a perpetual eagerness to learn. We believe these qualities are pivotal in driving innovation and addressing complex business challenges."

Recent analyses of the UAE job market underscore employers seeking young employees and students who can demonstrate a blend of adaptability, digital literacy, and an innovative mindset. They are looking for individuals who can contribute to a culture of continuous improvement and can work effectively in diverse teams.

To help students meet these expectations, the UOWD Career Centre has organised a comprehensive Career Fair Preparation session led by our career advisor. This session helped students enhance their networking skills and craft impactful elevator pitches, while a CV Review Session allowed students to refine their resumes under expert guidance. These concerted efforts helped students feel prepared and make a positive impression on the employers present at the Fair.

The Career Fair also served as a testament to UOWD's successful track record, with the return of UOWD alumni now representing their employers—demonstrating the full-circle impact of the university's programs. Ms Mary Gosha, Careers & Alumni Manager at UOWD, reflected: "We are proud that several alumni and students who participated in previous career fairs returned as representatives for their organisations, including H & S Real Estate, Philip Morris, Zomato, Al Futtaim Colas LLC, and Ard Al Ghadeer Trading LLC. Their success stories serve as a testament to the valuable opportunities and connections fostered through our career fairs in bridging the gap between academia and industry."

The insights from recent career-oriented events underscore a crucial trend: employers are increasingly valuing graduates who offer a blend of academic proficiency, adaptability, and robust soft skills like communication and problem-solving. Students who focus on cultivating these attributes, alongside their technical knowledge, stand to benefit the most in the current job market.