I've always enjoyed reading Jonathan Jansen's columns. His column "Dear Jobless Graduate" (June 21) offering advice to graduates was excellent. I'd like to expand on some of the advice he gave.

Keeping yourself occupied in a productive way once your studies have been completed is important. Doing voluntary work for charities or your community not only enhances your CV, but builds character. It also offers potential employers an opportunity to investigate your reliability and attitude in the work environment.

Another way to keep occupied is to continue studying, and getting involved in fund-raising is also a good way to gain experience.

There have been many times when my employers have advertised a vacancy with one of the requirements being "five years' experience".

At least 80% of the applicants were recently qualified graduates or school leavers. Don't waste your time and the employer's time by applying for a job you have no chance of getting.

Rather start at the bottom. Take whatever job you can to get your foot into the door. Take the junior job and become a shining star at it. Your personality and attitude have a huge influence on your future.