As universities focus on boosting graduate employability, one key source of insight often gets overlooked: feedback directly from employers. While academic performance is still important, employers are placing more value on practical readiness, soft skills, and adaptability in the workplace.
Recent employer surveys and research make one thing clear: there’s still a noticeable gap between what graduates expect and what employers actually need.
The Institute of Student Employers (ISE) Student Development Survey 2024 reveals that just 49% of employers believe graduates are career-ready at the time of hiring—a drop from 54% the previous year. Employers specifically pointed out gaps in areas like self-awareness and resilience, with 43% and 37% respectively saying graduates fall short in these skills.
A new survey supported by Hult International Business School highlights growing concerns among HR leaders:
- 96% believe universities should take more responsibility for preparing students for the workplace.
- 75% feel most university courses don’t provide the skills needed for entry-level roles.
- 91% say hiring and training graduates costs more than bringing in experienced professionals, with 69% noting it costs at least twice as much.
- On average, employers estimate they could save over $4,500 per hire if new employees were fully prepared to contribute from day one.
What Employers Consistently Emphasize?
Employers continue to urge universities to better connect academic learning with real-world work demands. Here’s a look at what employers say they expect—and how graduates feel about what they actually received:
- 90% of HR leaders expect personal career and development coaching or mentoring – Only 36% of graduates say they received this
- 91% value exposure to global perspectives through diverse peers and faculty – Reported by just 39% of graduates
- 91% want challenge-based learning focused on solving real-world problems – Only 40% of graduates say they experienced this
- 91% expect team-based work that simulates real job environments – 47% of graduates said they had this opportunity
- 92% look for skills aligned with current employer needs – Just 43% of graduates felt they were taught these skills
- 98% want foundational business knowledge in graduates – Only 42% of graduates said they received it
According to a McKinsey report, in both Europe and the United States, there’s a clear mismatch between the supply and demand for advanced cognitive skills like critical thinking and designing for user and product experience. At the same time, the demand for softer skills like adaptability and creativity is expected to rise.
Where Universities Can Make a Real Difference
1. Make Soft Skills a Core Part of the Curriculum: Skills like communication, teamwork, and digital collaboration should be built into every program, not just offered through optional workshops or seminars.
2. Strengthen Industry Ties at the Program Level: Regular collaboration with employers helps keep university courses relevant. Some effective strategies include:
- Involving employer panels in designing the curriculum
- Inviting industry leaders for guest lectures
- Including real-world projects assessed by employer partners
3. Provide More Work-Based Learning Opportunities: Work experience makes a big difference in employability. According to UCAS, two-thirds of employers prefer hiring graduates who’ve had hands-on experience, as it better prepares them for the workplace and helps them understand how businesses operate. Examples include:
- Internships and placements
- Simulated work environments
- Capstone projects sponsored by employers
4. Promote Lifelong Learning and Upskilling: Employers expect graduates to keep learning even after they enter the workforce. Universities that offer micro-credentials, digital certifications, and cross-disciplinary electives help students remain relevant as job markets evolve.
