Employers considering new college graduates for job openings are looking for leaders who can work as part of a team, according to a new report from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).
When participants in NACE’s Job Outlook 2016 survey were asked which attributes — beyond GPA — they look for on a candidate’s resumé, four out of five said they look for evidence of leadership skills and more than 75 percent cited the importance of teamwork skills.
Written communication skills and problem-solving skills — which are both sought by more than 70 percent of employers — are also highly valued, as are verbal communication skills and a strong work ethic.
Employers also noted that leadership skills have the most significant influence on their decision to hire one candidate over another.
Top 5 attributes employers seek on a candidate’s resumé
• Leadership (80%)
• Ability to work in a team (79%)
• Communication skills | written (70%)
• Problem solving skills (70%)
• Communication skills | verbal (69%)
Source: Job Outlook 2016, National Association of Colleges and Employers
Top 5 influence of attributes on hiring decision
• Major
• Held a leadership position
• Has been involved in extracurricular activities
• High GPA (3.0 or higher)
• The school attended
Source: Job Outlook 2016, National Association of Colleges and Employers
As a high school or college student, you can see where the vital areas of importance are. You will need to give examples of leadership, an excellent ability to communicate and do well in school in order to get the attention of employers.
Keep these key areas in mind as you make your decisions leading up to and while you are in college.
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