Survey: 1 in 4 Employers Say Recent Grads Unprepared for Entry-level Work

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pie chartDid you know that almost 1 in 4 employers say recent college graduates are unprepared for entry-level positions? Or that 37 percent of employers find it difficult or very difficult to find qualified candidates? Although 44 percent of students report feeling well prepared or very prepared for landing entry-level positions, just 18 percent of employers agree with them?

This is the latest data from a survey by Internships.com, the world’s largest internships marketplace, and General Assembly, leading educational institution offering instruction and opportunity in technology, business and design. The survey of 1,484 students and recent graduates and 331 human resources and recruitment professionals unveiled the digital and technical skills employers are looking for in the war for talent.

Survey results show that developing the digital and technical skills for all students (regardless of major) will not only supply employers with the talent they need, but offer students a better return on their college experience/investment.

“With technology and digital media driving much of today’s fast changing economy, there is a strong demand for people with technical skills and a practical understanding of business,” Jake Schwartz, co-founder and CEO of General Assembly, said.

Key survey highlights include:

Colleges & Universities can do more.

  • Less than half (44%) of students feel well prepared or very prepared by their college or university in digital or technical skills
  • 31 percent of students said their schools don’t offer, or they are unaware of courses, that encourage the development of digital or technical skills

Students desire practical, hands-on experience and digital and technical skills.

  • Three-fourths (75%) of students desire more access to internships/real-world experience from their university/college
  • 52 percent of students think more practical skills development – including digital and technical skills – should be required
  • 63 percent of students have pursued digital or technical skills on their own, outside of the classroom, online and offline, through formal and informal workshops, and via in-person classes

For more information, check out the accompanying infographic:

infographic_GA-IDC_closing-skills-gap

By Shala Marks