Career Paths

"Perfect" Job Candidate Pairs Communication Skills With Strong Work Ethic The "perfect" candidate for the job is a top-notch communicator and a hard worker, according to employers responding to the Job Outlook 2008 survey, conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).

But that’s not all employers look for when sizing up new college graduates as potential employees.

"Each year, when we ask employers to rate the importance of a variety of skills and abilities, communication comes out on top," says Marilyn Mackes. "At the same time, however, employers view many other attributes as critical. This year, for example, employers cite the ability to work in a team, interpersonal and problem-solving skills, and initiative as among their most preferred qualities. They’re looking for the well-rounded candidate who can work well with others and function effectively in the workplace."

--NACE Article, December 2007

Employers Cite Communication Skills, Honesty/Integrity as Key for Job Candidates What does it take to be the "ideal" job candidate? Employers have a tall order, but communication skills are at the top of their list in what they look for in potential employees, according to a report from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).

Employers responding to NACE's Job Outlook 2007 survey named communication skills and honesty/integrity as a job seeker's most important skills and qualities. (See Figure 1.)

"Communication skills have topped the list for eight years, and honesty and integrity have tied for the top spot for the last three years," says Marilyn Mackes, NACE executive director.

-- NACE Article, March 2007

Employers Identify the Skills, Qualities of the "Ideal Candidate" "College students who wish to separate themselves from the competition during their job search would be wise to develop proficiencies most sought by employers, such as communication, interpersonal, and teamwork skills, according to a survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers." -- NACE Article, January 2004

Communications Skills Top Employers' Wish List--Again "As has been the case for the past several years, communications skills top the list of personal qualities/skills employers seek in new hires. Trailing closely behind are honesty/integrity, teamwork skills, interpersonal skills, and motivation/initiative. The 'perfect' candidate also has some type of relevant work experience to offer. All in all, the skills and qualities employers look for in candidates reflect the needs of the 21st century workplace, which increasingly requires employees to work in teams, interact effectively with co-workers and customers, and manage job responsibilities without being spoon fed." -- National Association of Colleges and Employers, NACE Job Outlook 2001, p 6.

Every year the National Association of Colleges and Employers conducts a national survey of employers to find out what they're looking for in job candidates.

In 2008 the results showed employers were looking for the following:

  • Communication skills
  • Strong work ethic
  • Teamwork skills
  • Initiative
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Analytical skills
  • Flexibility/adaptability
  • Computer skills
  • Technical skills
  • Detail-oriented
  • Organizational skills

Source: NCEA Pressroom

In 2007 the results showed employers were looking for the following:

  • Communication skills (verbal and written)
  • Honesty/integrity
  • Interpersonal skills (relates well to others)
  • Motivation/initiative
  • Strong work ethic
  • Teamwork skills (works well with others)

Source: NCEA Pressroom

In 2003 the results showed employers were looking for the following:

  • Communication Skills
  • Honesty/Integrity
  • Teamwork Skills
  • Interpersonal Skills
  • Motivation/Initiative

Source: NACE Press Room

In 2001 the results showed employers were looking for the following:

  • Communication Skills (verbal and written)
  • Honesty/Integrity
  • Teamwork Skills
  • Interpersonal Skills
  • Motivation/Initiative
  • Strong Work Ethic
  • Analystical Skills
  • Flexibility/adaptability
  • Computer Skills
  • Self Confidence

In 2000 the results were:

  • Communication Skills
  • Motivation/Initiative
  • Teamwork Skills
  • Leadership Skills
  • Academic Achievement/GPA
  • Interpersonal Skills
  • Flexibility/Adaptability
  • Technical Skills
  • Honesty/Integrity
  • Work Ethic
  • Analytic/problem solving skills

The results in 1997:

  • Interpersonal Skills
  • Teamwork Skills
  • Analytical Skills
  • Oral Communication Skills
  • Flexibility
  • Computer Skills
  • Written Communication
  • Leadership
  • Work Experience
  • Internship

In 1994 and 1995 the top five skills, in rank order, were:

  • Oral Communication Skills
  • Interpersonal Skills
  • Teamwork Skills
  • Flexibility
  • Analytical Skills

In 1993 the top five skills, in rank order, were:

  • Proficiency in field of study
  • Oral Communication Skills
  • Interpersonal Skills
  • Teamwork Skills
  • Analytical Skills