Employers look at personality when hiring graduates

Personality,
attitude and motivation are the most important factors to consider when hiring
a graduate, according to a new survey.

The
survey, by Accountemps, found that experience in the relevant profession was
the second most important aspect.

The
survey interviewed 1,000 managers in charge of recruitment and found that they
look for graduates who are eager to learn, possesses a pro-active attitude and
a strong personality.

Dave
James, regional manager of Accountemps, said: "The results of the survey
will reassure students who have taken a long time to complete their college
degree."

"Managers
find it extremely important that candidates have the required degree but,
ultimately, the final selection is measured on personality.

"In
specialised recruitment, in particular, the applicant needs to have the right
background, but motivation, personality and right attitude are what convinces
the employer."

Sign up to our weekly round-up of HR news and guidance

Receive the Personnel Today Direct e-newsletter every Wednesday

Email(Required)

OptOut

From time to time, we will send you emails about selected products, events and services from Personnel Today and OHW+ - but you can choose to opt-out at any time. If you do not wish to receive these emails, please tick this box.

Name

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Δ

By Quentin Reade