Pitman Training Ireland come out in firm support of the National Internship Scheme

Pitman Training Ireland have come out in firm support of the new National Internship Scheme, and are encouraging graduates to take the unique opportunity the programme presents to gain valuable experience. The nationwide training organisation recently called on the government to support and encourage more practical training programmes that can deliver the real skills they claim employers are still finding difficult to find. The organisation are now advising participants of the Internship Scheme to also take a closer look at their skills, not just the qualifications, gained from college.

Spokesperson for Pitman Training in Ireland, Tomás Finneran, explained the benefits of taking this approach. “Many of those who are considering taking up a position with a company through the National Internship Scheme are forgetting to use their time on the programme to maximise their employability.”

“Employers will make their decision to hire based on three key areas: Attitude, Experience and Skills. Presuming you have the right attitude, and that the Internship will deliver six to nine months relevant industry experience, the obvious gap remains. Employers are crying out for highly practical and productive skills from their new recruits. Centres such as Pitman Training have a range of relevant courses which are run in part-time, full-time and flexible formats that allow individuals to train and gain these skills.”

The economic downturn has resulted in reduced opportunities for employment, and the team at Pitman Training are working closely with those looking to up-skill to help them find employment through training programmes, job seeking skills, as well as CV and Interview skills support.

A senior Course Advisor at the centre explained how choosing the right training course is critical, “We are telling our students that their aim should always be to get their CV to the top of the pile. It’s true that employers are being bombarded with applications as soon as they advertise a vacancy. However, this shouldn’t mean there is less of a chance of getting called for an interview. The vast majority of applicants lack the relevant skills and experience to compose appropriate and effective job applications. We work closely with every student to ensure they get the exact skills employers need whilst providing coaching in job-seeking skills, so that their applications are flawless. Over 69% of our 2010 graduates found employment after finishing their course - that’s higher than any other training institution in Ireland!”

“Employers are calling our centres every week looking for students who can hit the ground running. Good computer skills, the latest Microsoft packages, Irish-specific bookkeeping, Medical Secretary skills - these are the types of skills that local employers still need. Remember, to compete for these jobs, job-seekers need those practical, employer–friendly skills.”

Pitman Training are currently enrolling for their September training programmes. Over 100 courses are available in Microsoft Office, Administration, Secretarial, Web-Design, Accounts and Business IT as well as a comprehensive range of IT professional training programmes. For more information or to secure your place, call 1800-532632 or visit our website.