From Classroom to Career: Skills Institute's "In The Market" Event Delivers Results

Skills Institute's first "In The Market" recruitment event has proven that innovative approaches to career connections can deliver real outcomes for students and industry alike.

The event, led by our Real Estate team, united 25 Skills Institute Real Estate graduates with representatives from seven leading agencies - including Bayleys Ponsonby and One Tree Hill, Barfoot & Thompson Grey Lynn, Ray White Carpenter Realty, Ray White Now, and Harcourts Greenlane.

Within days of the event, 12 interviews had been confirmed, 15 additional candidate contacts had been passed to relevant branches, and two job offers were made. 

Bridging the Gap 

The initiative was designed to strengthen connections between our students and an industry experiencing strong demand for qualified salespeople. Rather than relying on traditional application processes, the event created space for genuine conversations between candidates and potential employers.

The speed dating format encouraged even nervous students to approach the agencies for short, focused interviews. This approach also helped build rapport while reducing pressure on students who were meeting potential employers for the first time.

Candidates came prepared with CVs and interview techniques, ready to present themselves professionally while conveying their career goals.

The informal atmosphere allowed both sides to assess cultural fit and evaluate whether they'd like to work together. For students transitioning from online study, the event also provided valuable opportunities to meet peers and ask candid questions about the industry.

Success was measured not just by numbers, but by the quality of engagement between students and employers. Feedback from both groups has been overwhelmingly positive, with strong interest in participating in future events. 

Supporting Workforce Development 

‘In The Market’ directly addresses workforce needs in New Zealand's real estate sector. By connecting students with employers, the event shortens the gap between training and employment while helping to fill industry talent gaps.

For the students who participated, the event offered more than just job prospects. It provided a bridge between education and employment, built on real connections and genuine opportunity.