Advice for Employers and Recruiters
Annual Salary Increases More Important to New Grads Than Medical Insurance Benefits
Steven Rothberg
Marilyn Mackes of NACE
Annual salary increases are the most preferred benefit among job-seeking new college graduates, according to results of a new study by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).
Historically, graduating seniors taking part in NACE’s annual student survey have placed medical insurance in the top spot, according to Marilyn Mackes, NACE executive director.
“However, among graduating seniors taking part in NACE’s 2012 Student Survey, healthcare benefits landed fourth on the list, behind the annual salary increase, a 401(k) match, and tuition reimbursement,” she says.
The most likely explanation for the change, says Mackes, are alterations to federal healthcare-related laws.
“Graduates know that they can now stay on their parents’ coverage until they are 26 years old, making medical benefits somewhat less critical in their list of priorities,” says Mackes.
Despite the change in order, the top five benefits have remained largely the same over the past several years.
“The focus is—and has been–on benefits that provide security,” says Mackes. “Salary increases, the 401(k) match, and various insurances provide a financial net while tuition reimbursement supports the graduate’s ability to acquire new skills and gain or retain value in the job market.”
