That’s according to the Economic Policy Institute, which recently published a report suggesting this year’s graduating class is in better shape than the class of 2022, with a stronger labor market for younger workers, and lower unemployment and underemployment rates.
The report also found salaries for graduates increased by 9% during the pandemic which means the majority of workers aged under 25 now only work one full-time job.
On paper, the prognosis for this year’s graduates is positive, meaning you’re in a good position to ask yourself what you really want and need from employers as you start your job hunt.
So what are this year’s graduates looking for in the workplace?
1. Fast progression
A recent report from LaSalle Network revealed that 54% of graduates expect to get their first promotion within the first 12 months at a company, and if it doesn’t come, well then––they’re willing to jump ship in order to find that opportunity elsewhere.
2. Hybrid working
That same report suggested that, for 87% of the class of 2023, hybrid working with a mix between onsite and remote working is the preference. However, it’s worth noting that incoming new hires want the flexibility to set their own schedule. For the class of 2023, remote working really means remote working.
3. Lifestyle support
Free coffee and an onsite gym might be nice to have, but they are no longer considered strong enough perks to sway a member of the class of 2023 into accepting an offer. Today’s grads want to work for a company that encourages work-life balance and rewards hard work with unlimited paid time off or flexible working hours.
4. Sense of belonging
Good employers know that when employees feel valued, they do their best work, but for the class of 2023 it goes beyond that.
In addition to strong financial compensation, grads want to work for a company that aligns with their personal beliefs and offers meaningful support to staff. In fact, for 40% of them, access to mental health support can be the deciding factor in whether to accept a role.
For employers who want to retain graduate talent, it’s important that paths to progression are made clear, that upskilling and mentorship opportunities are highlighted, and that company culture is at the forefront of all activity.
If you are looking for a job today, the BusinessBecause Job Board is full of exciting roles from leading companies who are all committed to nurturing talent. Five such companies are highlighted below.
Accenture
Accenture actively looks for those with an advanced degree or MBA program, and is well known for the strength of its graduate offer. If you are looking to kick start your career, explore analyst development programs and available entry-level opportunities here.
Deloitte
A leading global provider of audit and assurance, consulting, financial advisory, risk advisory, tax, and related services, starting your career at Deloitte is a great idea. Discover its eight graduate programs, each focused on a different kind of role, and see all open roles here.
Goldman Sachs
Early stage careers are a focus at Goldman Sachs, where there is a New Analyst Program on offer. It’s a full-time program for final year undergraduate and graduate students, helping you get familiar with both the company and the work. See all jobs at the firm now.
Adobe
A dedicated professional development program is on offer at Adobe, just for MBAs. Designed by MBA employees in collaboration with Adobe’s Talent Development team, it gives you the chance to dive deeper into Adobe’s business strategy and strengthen your skills while creating leadership opportunities, career pathways, and community. See all jobs at Adobe here.
Amazon
Amazon offers internships for rising seniors and recent graduates with an undergraduate degree, Master’s degree, MBA or PhD as well as real-world experience, showing you just what it’s like to work at the highest-level, accelerating the progression of your career, and setting you up for success. See current opportunities.
Kick-start your career by browsing thousands of open roles on the BusinessBecause Job Board
This article was written by Kirstie McDermott
