Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) employ 7 out of every 10 Irish higher education graduates in Ireland but most report that competing with larger employers for graduate talent is a real struggle.

This is according to figures released ahead of the launch of the Association of Higher Education Careers Services annual industry event. 

Considering SMEs make up 99% of all enterprise and generate over half of the State’s annual turnover, this competitive disadvantage when it comes to employing the best students is a real problem.

The Association of Higher Education Careers Services (AHECS) annual industry event yesterday brought together leaders from Higher Education, industry and recent graduate entrepreneurs to focus on the SME/entrepreneurship landscape in Ireland. 

The aim of the event was to explore how engagement with Higher Education Institutions and careers services can benefit both SMEs and graduates. The event also focused on the perception of entrepreneurship and supports offered by Higher Level Institutions to budding entrepreneurs.

"It really is vital that we do everything we can to strengthen the ties between SMEs and our graduates," said Emma Goode, Employment Officer NUI Galway. "Considering how important SMEs are to Ireland’s economy, these measures are crucial for Ireland’s future success."

Careers Officer National College of Ireland, Caroline Kennedy added, "Students who begin their career within an SME enjoy a real agility that is part of an SME environment. The breadth of exposure they gain within their work, the early responsibility and a higher profile within the firm from day one, together with their ability to impact the business early on in their career can make it a much more rewarding option than a graduate job with a multi-national corporation."

Source: www.businessworld.ie