What skills are hiring managers seeking when they are recruiting college seniors and recent graduates for employment? What marketable skills do you have that can help you secure an interview and ultimately a job offer?
Employers are looking for leaders who can also be team players, who can solve problems and communicate, both in writing and verbally, solutions effectively, according to respondents to NACE’s Job Outlook 2016 survey.
Hiring managers also screen resumes for evidence of a strong work ethic (job and internship experience, solid GPA), and analytical and technical skills. The more skills you can develop while you’re in college, the more opportunities you’ll have for getting hired for a permanent position after graduation.
Keep in mind that all your college accomplishments – activities, sports, academics, volunteering, jobs, internships, clubs – can help you gain the skills you need for your first post-graduate role.
Top 10 Skills Employers Seek in College Grads
Here’s a list of the top skills that the employers who responded to a survey look for on resumes.
They are a combination of skills that qualify the candidate for the job and that prepare them to succeed in a professional workplace.
- Leadership
- Ability to work in a team
- Communication skills (written)
- Problem solving skills
- Communication skills (verbal)
- Strong work ethic
- Initiative
- Analytical / quantitative skills
- Flexibility / adaptability
- Technical skills