The "perfect" candidate for the job is a top-notch communicator and a hard worker, according to employers responding to the Job Outlook 2008 survey, conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).
But that's not all employers look for when sizing up new college graduates as potential employees.
"Each year, when we ask employers to rate the importance of a variety of skills and abilities, communication comes out on top," says Marilyn Mackes. "At the same time, however, employers view many other attributes as critical. This year, for example, employers cite the ability to work in a team, interpersonal and problem-solving skills, and initiative as among their most preferred qualities. They're looking for the well-rounded candidate who can work well with others and function effectively in the workplace." (See Figure 1.)
Figure 1. Important qualities/skills
for a job candidate Quality/Skill | Rating | | Communication skills | 4.6 |
| Strong work ethic | 4.6 |
| Teamwork skills | 4.5 |
| Initiative | 4.4 |
| Interpersonal skills | 4.4 |
| Problem-solving skills | 4.4 |
| Analytical skills | 4.3 |
| Flexibility/adaptability | 4.2 |
| Computer skills | 4.1 |
| Technical skills | 4.1 |
| Detail-oriented | 4.0 |
| Organizational skills | 4.0 |
| (5-point-scale where 1=not important; 2=not very important; 3=somewhat important; 4=very important; and 5=extremely important) |
Interestingly, when asked which key skill was most lacking in new college graduate candidates, employers also named communication skills.
"Many employers pointed to a lack of writing skills on the part of candidates, and others reported that new college graduates lack the ability to communicate effectively in face-to-face situations—including the job interview," says Mackes.
Despite the extensive criteria by which employers judge candidates, NACE's survey shows a positive job market for the Class of 2008, with employers expecting to hire 16 percent more new college graduates in 2007-08 than they did in 2006-07.
"Overall, the job market looks good, but students still must work to market themselves effectively to employers and demonstrate that they have what employers want," says Mackes.
College students can typically get help in learning how to showcase their abilities most effectively through their campus career centers.
"Most campus career centers offer resume and interview workshops, practice interviews, resume critiques, and other programs where students can polish their communication skills and learn how to present themselves in the best light," says Mackes. "Given the importance employers place on good communication and other key abilities, it's well worth the student’s time to participate."
About the Job Outlook 2008 survey: NACE surveyed 1,199 of its employer members from mid-August through October 5, 2007. Two hundred and seventy-six (276), or 23 percent, responded.
Of those responding, 48.2 percent were service sector employers, 46.4 percent were manufacturers, and 5.4 percent were government/nonprofit employers.
By region, 34.8 percent of respondents were from the South, 26.4 percent were from the Midwest, 21.4 percent were from the Northeast, and the remaining 17.4 percent were from the West.
NACE monitors the job market for new college graduates throughout the academic year via a series of surveys and reports; NACE expects to release another update on the job market for the Class of 2008 in April.
Article courtesy of NACE. About NACE: Since 1956, the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) has been the leading source of information about the employment of college graduates. NACE maintains a virtual press room for the media at www.naceweb.org/press/.
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