Yes, they do, and not necessarily acquired immediately after their primary degree. Many of them went for a job based on their first qualification and saw that they needed more training to make progress in their chosen career. Many companies now support their graduate intake to improve their skills and qualifications, when the company will benefit.

In some cases, people find they need to switch tracks away from their original choice. It turns out not to be as good a match as they thought. The best way to be considered for a change of role may be to get a different qualification – made easier by having an initial degree in the first place. (Most, if not all, post-graduate courses require a third level qualification, while many will reduce the amount of study required, once you have a basic qualification.)

In a more competitive job market, though, every extra advantage you can summon helps. You’d be wise to consider how you might get an extra qualification and which one is best suited to your strengths and abilities and to current skills shortages. For instance, scientific graduates are in great demand just now – could you move in that direction?

Eoghan McDermott is Director of Careers, The Communication Clinic . www.communicationsclinic.ie