Millennials Seek Security in First Job
Think young adults–members of the Millennial generation–are more willing to take risks than previous generations? Not when it comes to their careers, according to results of a new study conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).
NACE’s 2008 Graduating Student Survey found that new college graduates are most focused on security when it comes to a potential job or employer. In fact, compared to those responding to a similar study NACE conducted in 1982, current graduates are more conservative about jobs and employers than were their Baby Boomer counterparts.
Current respondents were asked to rank 15 job attributes in terms of their importance. (See Figure 1.) Results often run counter to conventional wisdom.
“Our study found that new graduates are looking for a long-term relationship with an employer that can provide them with the fundamental security provided by a good insurance/benefits package, job security, and room for growth without risk to their financial security,” says Marilyn Mackes, NACE executive director.
Interestingly, the study found that many attributes commonly associated with young adults, including the opportunity for personal development and the opportunity for self-expression and creativity, ranked toward the middle of the list.
Perhaps most surprising, as much has been made of the Millennial generation’s community consciousness: “Respondents ranked the company taking an active role in the community much lower than expected, closer to the bottom than the top,” says Mackes.
NACE’s 2008 Graduating Student Survey focused on student behaviors and attitudes related to the job search; questions focused on new graduate interest in pursuing a job, the manner in which they conducted their job search, and the attributes they considered important in choosing a job.
Complete survey results will be released in June. Selected results are available in “The Oldest Young Generation: A Report From the 2008 NACE Graduating Student Survey,” at www.naceweb.org/public/koc0508.htm.
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/.
