Graduate Profile - Business & Economics

Business & Economics Working for the Australian Bureau of Statistics

Name: Averil Templar
Degree Awarded: BComm/BLaws (ANU), BBusEc(Hons) (Flinders)
Position Gained: APS4
Organisation: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Adelaide
Commencement Date: 24th January 2005

Could you give us a description of what your position involves or will involve?
The position is a statistical position, with duties including data management and analysis, management of statistical operations, providing statistical services to clients and project management.

With your experiences in securing employment what advice would you give to students who are in their first, second, and final year of study?

I honestly think that first year students shouldn't be expected to know at that stage exactly where they want their degree to take them, and should therefore be open to different employment options and experiences, without pressure. As a final year, there is a lot of pressure on students to secure employment, alongside the increased pressure of final year (or Honours) study. My advice would be to make use of all the resources available to you - faculty staff, employment centres, video's, pamphlets, friends and family. Experience in interviews and resume writing builds confidence in the job seeking process and helps you to shine and rise above other candidates.

How did you go about finding graduate employment?
I subscribed to the daily job email service at both Flinders and Seek. Many Saturday's were spent with my head in the career section of the Advertiser!

Can you briefly describe the application process relevant to your position?
A written application initially (requiring page long responses to selection criteria), followed by a computer assessment/test (using Excel) on site at the ABS office in the city. After that, a panel interview, and then - an offer!

What interview questions were you asked?
I was asked a number of 'technical' questions about data collection procedures and how to minimise sampling error. I was asked about my previous employment experience (at a market research firm), and then asked behavioural questions such as recalling a time when I had to work in a team, had to meet a deadline...etc. The interview went for about 45 minutes. There were three interviewers on the panel, and a scribe.

In your opinion, what factors enabled you to be successful in obtaining employment?
My previous employment experience at a market research firm helped me to answer some of the technical questions in the interview, which I believe helped me to stand out from other candidates. Showing enthusiasm and allowing your personality to shine through in an interview I think also helped. At the end of the day, I believe a selection panel is going to ask themselves "could I work with this person?" - and showing that you are enthusiastic, flexible and outgoing helps them to answer that question in your favour.

Do you have any further helpful hints for graduates?  
Good luck, don't give up! The job-seeking process can be really disheartening. I could wallpaper my bedroom with all my rejection letters! Every rejection letter is a learning experience though, and is never a waste of time. Stay positive.