graduate with commerce degree and masters (HR); job hunting what to aim for?

Hi As a recent graduate with degree in commerce and masters in hr but with no work experience except as a waitress or on a cash desk, what kind of job can I hope for? I have done the rounds of recruit agencies and the only positions they seem to want to put my cv forward for is reception jobs or junior admin positions paying max 21k. I have a student loan and will be renting so I think that money is very small. Should I hold out for a better position or will I have to take one of these positions to gain experience. I know lots of graduates are now looking but can I expect better than this. all advice welcome

As you have little work experience, you should probably take the best of whatever offers come along. But think of it as a first step from which to move upwards towards what you really want. Learn as much as possible about whatever organisation you join, and apply for any internal jobs that may arise. You won't go straight into a senior role without relevant experience regardless of the qualifications you hold.
You have to start somewhere

I'd be fast tracking gaining as much experience as possible at any level in an organisation. There may be specific graduate programs you could apply for in companies so would be looking into that one. If you are interested in the HR area push to get work experience/temping in a HR department. Be selective in temping jobs you might take so that they provide you with decent robust experience you can put on your CV.

Are you underestimating your previous experience? Have you done any voluntary work in the past? At college did you organise any events etc? Even at secondary school did you hold any position of responsibility? You need to include all of this in your work history as it shows you can hold a position of responsibility.

If you have the luxury of time, try to push the agencies to get you a higher rate given your education standard and hold out for that higher rate if you can. Don't be afraid to push and negotiate with them and get them working more for you. Good luck!

What about trying to search for public sector jobs - eg civil service?

How about sending your cv into management consulting firms for an entry-level analyst position, you'd be surprised at how keen they are to recruit people to do a lot of the 'grunt work'.

The work is hard and the hours can be long but if you could hack it and add value to the firm then you could have a very marketable cv when you got some assignments under your belt. You would have the chance to progress within several years to a full consultant position or move into industry with the skills and experience gained.

Bear in mind that whilst agencies are good a lot of companies try to recruit graduates directly, saving them the cost of paying an agency the finders fee.

Take a look at www.gradireland.com for latest vacancies but more importantly details of 'graduate entry' schemes that big companies offer. Their 2007/8 recruitment round starts now.

What about Recruitment work - work for a good quality agency, I see Hunter Marshal are advertising in the Times today for their Graduate Training Scheme.

Keep an eye on for all public sector opportunities.

You just need to get your foot in the door, don't despair.