The issue to blame, according to one survey respondent, is the dependence on technology.  The participant stated, “Younger people are so dependent on shortcuts through texting and other social media that they avoid proper grammar and interpersonal verbal skills that are necessary in the ‘working world.’” Another agreed stating, “(Students) can make computers and software dance, but struggle to interpret the results.”

Although total unemployment numbers are beginning to improve with the slow signs of progress in the economy and housing market, the rate is still high for college graduates.  With a grand total at 8.9%, and topping at 13% in some industries, many are blaming lack of employment opportunities as the cause to this number, which still exceeds the national average. However, a new study says the graduates themselves may be to blame.  According to its results, employers believe the graduates that get opportunities are lacking the skills to impress and therefore hold their employment.

Leading Architectural firm Woods Bagot recently commissioned the research firm Global Strategy Group to ask the question of whether the individuals that are being hired are the ones that both deserve and can achieve in their new roles.  Of the 500 high-level business decision makers surveyed, 49% say individuals they have recently hired are less prepared to do their jobs than the graduates they hired 15 years ago.  C-Suite executives seemed to agree as 70% stated that less than half of the graduates they have encountered have the skills to fit entry level openings.  In fact, many of the executives polled stated that only 21% applying to their company have the skills to advance past their entry level offerings.

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