Academic results ‘have little impact on career prospects’

Exam results and academic qualifications have little or no impact on career progression, according to a new survey by the jobs website Monster.co.uk.

It found that 75 per cent of people believe their career prospects have been unaffected by their academic results.

Furthermore, just one in ten said they thought their qualifications and exam performance had played a key part in their job success.

Issuing advice to jobseekers, Monster.co.uk recommended pursuing extra-curricular activities that can be added to CVs to make candidates stand out.

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"Work experience, summer employment and pursuing hobbies and extra-curricular activities will all help you to develop a broad range of skills that will ensure you succeed in your chosen career," it stated.

A recent survey by GRADdirect found that 62 per cent of employers believe transferable skills such as communication and teamwork are more important than academic qualifications.