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Elevate Magazine
October 30, 2024

Majority of Employers Express Dissatisfaction With Their Graduate Hires

majority of employers express dissatisfaction with their graduate hires

A report from Intelligent.com, which surveyed 966 business leaders involved in hiring, found that 6 in 10 organisations have dismissed recent college graduates due to dissatisfaction with their performance.

Meanwhile, 79% of companies had to put certain underperforming hires on performance improvement plans (PIPs), and 60% reported that some of these employees were eventually terminated. 

75% of employers found some or all of the recent college graduates they hired this year to be unsatisfactory. 

Among the reasons cited for these unsatisfactory performances, 50% of employers pointed to a lack of motivation or initiative. Other critical issues included 46% citing a lack of professionalism, 39% reporting poor communication skills, 38% noting struggles with feedback, and 34% indicating inadequate problem-solving abilities.

Hiring managers have also expressed their concerns about recent graduates in the workplace. According to the report, 65% of hiring managers view recent college graduates as entitled, while 63% believe they are easily offended. Furthermore, over half of the respondents, 55%, feel that these graduates lack a strong work ethic, and 54% indicate that they do not respond well to feedback. Additionally, 53% of hiring managers believe that Gen Z college graduates are unprepared for the workforce and exhibit poor communication skills.

Are companies set to hire recent college graduates in 2025? 84% of the respondents have indicated their intention to do so, while around 5% do not plan to hire, and 10% are still uncertain.

“Recent graduates starting their first job should demonstrate professionalism, not by conforming to outdated norms, but by being respectful and committed to their work. Begin by observing and understanding the company culture and how colleagues interact. Take the initiative to ask thoughtful questions, seek feedback, and apply it to show your motivation for personal growth. Build a reputation for dependability by maintaining a positive attitude, meeting deadlines, and volunteering for projects, even those outside your immediate responsibilities,” Intelligent’s Chief Education and Career Development Advisor, Huy Nguyen, said. 

Nguyen also emphasised that managers often fall into the trap of relying on common stereotypes about Generation Z, which can lead to their complete dismissal. Companies share the responsibility of equipping recent graduates for the workplace, ensuring they have the best opportunities to thrive. By recognising the unique challenges faced by Gen Z employees, organisations can adopt a proactive strategy that includes structured onboarding programs, which clearly communicate company culture and expectations. Additionally, pairing new graduates with mentors within the organisation can be immensely beneficial, offering Gen Z workers essential guidance and support necessary for their success.