Connections and the Internet are Key to Getting a Job: Here’s the Experience of Humanities Graduates

HUMANITIES – (17/9/2024) – Graduates of the Faculty of Humanities at UIN Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang use a variety of methods to obtain information about job vacancies. Based on the results of a tracer study conducted over four months, from early February to late June 2024, the two main sources most utilized were connections and the internet. A total of 35% of Humanities graduates received job vacancy information through personal connections. These connections include networks of friends, colleagues, or other acquaintances who provide information about available job opportunities. Connections are a valuable source of information, highlighting the importance of social networks in facilitating graduates' entry into the workforce. Besides connections, the internet also played a dominant role, with 30.5% of graduates using online platforms to search for jobs. The internet offers easy access and a wide range of information, allowing graduates to discover various job opportunities that might not be accessible through other means. Job search websites, career portals, and social media platforms such as LinkedIn are popular choices for graduates. Family also contributed to helping graduates find employment, with 13.5% obtaining information through family members. This shows that family support remains an important factor in the job search process, particularly for those who may not yet have an extensive network. Although the internet and connections dominated, some graduates also obtained information from other sources. Around 3% of graduates found jobs through advertisements in print media, while 5% were contacted directly by companies. This shows that conventional methods, like print ads, still hold relevance, albeit in smaller percentages. Interestingly, 1% of graduates used job applications such as LinkedIn to get jobs. Although this figure is relatively small, it indicates a growing trend in the use of digital technology focused on career opportunities. Additionally, 5.5% of graduates opted to apply for jobs directly without knowing about specific vacancies. This method shows initiative and courage in exploring employment opportunities at desired companies, even without specific job information. Lastly, about 2% of graduates received job vacancy information through faculty members. While the role of faculty members as a source of information is small, it remains significant in helping graduates find their way into the workforce. These data show that Humanities graduates utilize a variety of information sources to find employment. While technology and personal connections are dominant, this diversity of methods reflects the flexibility and adaptability of graduates in facing the challenges of the job market. [aii]