With a few million students graduating, there is even more competition for jobs. The
good news is that college hiring has increased by 7.8 percent relative to 2014 according
to the National Association of Colleges and Employers. Still it is very competitive and
graduates have to work to stand out.
In a new study in partnership with Beyond.com, Millenial Branding found that 73%
of hiring managers felt that colleges are only somewhat preparing for the working
world. Therefore, it is up to students to figure out the best way to win the recruiting
game.
Here are four tips to stay competitive:
1) CHOOSE A COMPANY BASED ON CULTURE - Companies are now hiring
for cultural fit over all other qualifications because personality is a leading
indicator for how productive and successful they will be on the job.
2) DEVELOP SOFT SKILLS - The top three attibutes that companies are currently
looking for is a positive attitude (84%), communication skills (83%) and the
ability to work on a team (74%).
3) DON'T MAJOR IN LIBERAL ARTS - The most dissapointing finding in the
study was that only 2% of companies are actively recruiting liberal arts majors
versus 27% for engineering and 18% percent for business. Alnost half of all
professionals surveyed said that they believe there are "no jobs" for liberal
arts students. If you majored in liberal arts, you should start reading business
books, taking business classes and get a mentor to fill in the gap.
4) RESEARCH COMPANIES - Choose the right company instead of applying
for random jobs. Once you get an interview, make sure you have done
your homework on this prospective employer.
Sheila McKinney
