Potential and Power Skills with Kristie Brookes & Olivia Roden

The graduate job market has never been more competitive, with up to 150 applicants per role, but that doesn’t mean opportunity has disappeared.In this episode, we sit down with Kristie Brookes and Liv Roden from Aston University to unpack what it’s really like to be a student right now, and what employers might be getting wrong.We explore the growing gap between education and employment, why “entry-level” roles now expect experience, and how students can stand out in a world of AI-generated CVs and identical applications.From “power skills” and emotional intelligence to hiring for potential over perfection, this is a practical, honest conversation about the future of work - and how both students and employers need to adapt.If you’ve got kids heading into the world of work, or you’re hiring the next generation, this one matters.Key TakeawaysThe graduate market is tougher than ever — but opportunity still existsDifferentiation is everything (and it’s not just about grades)Employers should hire for potential, not just experienceAI is changing entry-level work, but human skills matter more than ever“Power skills” (leadership, AI, innovation, emotional intelligence) are the real advantageStudents aren’t lazy - they’re navigating a completely different worldYour personality, passion, and story are what set you apartThemes • Future of work • Early careers / graduate market • AI & employability • Emotional intelligence • Identity & confidence • Social mobility • Hiring & leadershipKeywords graduate jobs, early careers, Aston University, employability, Gen Z workforce, hiring graduates, AI in recruitment, power skills, soft skills, student careers, internships UK, graduate market UK, career advice, emotional intelligence at work, leadership skills, entry level jobs UKChapters00:00 Meet the Employer Engagement Officers01:40 Current Student Experience and Market Challenges05:44 Understanding the Role of Employer Engagement Officers08:56 Career Journeys of Kristie and Olivia13:48 Aston University: Opportunities and Offerings16:45 Power Skills and Student Preparedness20:02 Perceptions of Young People in the Workforce21:50 Emotional Intelligence in the Job Market24:57 Demonstrating Passion and Personality28:55 The Value of University Experience33:10 Overcoming Self-Doubt in Career Paths