Advice for new graduates during industry downturns

Today there are record numbers of would-be mining engineers, geologists and other minerals professionals studying at universities around the world. After graduation they may join the thousands currently unemployed or underemployed in those fields. What should an individual do in such an industry downturn?

Firstly it helps to be personable and have a good work ethic, with a willingness to try anything. If you are socially withdrawn or think yourself superior – get help! It is certainly possible to make yourself more attractive as a potential employee. Make sure you get vacation employment (internship) as an undergraduate. Industry experience is worth a great deal of effort. If you can afford it, offer to travel across the world for an opportunity. Whatever you do, get vacation work that will appear on your resumè. Flipping burgers is better than surfing.

Get good marks. They don’t have to be great, but avoid having a failure on your record, particularly in the senior years. Most potential employers consider that graduates will have adequate qualifications; it is the non-academic aspects of your life that will win you the job. Make sure you have good written and oral communication skills. These can be learned and improved, don’t accept what you are right now.

Do things that show leadership and community involvement. Get involved in a professional institute early in your university time. Attend local branch meetings and get to conferences if you can. Become a student representative. Organize a seminar. Learn a second (or a third) language. Spanish, Russian or Chinese could be valuable, but any language will broaden your opportunities. Apply for scholarships; they bring not only funding but a pathway into employment.

Some people will say these things are too hard to achieve. They will be unemployed, not you. If you have done your best but still cannot find the job you hoped for, what then?

First, you could continue your studies. Most universities around the world offer diploma, masters or PhD programmes in areas that would enhance your first degree. Consider further studies in mineral economics, project management or technology. If you don’t wish to continue academically, look for work as a mine operator or labourer after graduation to learn your way around. This is not unusual, and many successful careers start out this way. Lastly, look into careers in other industries where a technical background is valued. It may surprise you to learn that a large proportion of mining engineering and geology graduates do not go into the mining industry, but they are valued in other fields.

The mining industry is cyclic; things will turn for the better. By taking the initiative and managing yourself you will be part of the next big cycle, whatever it may be.