Institute of Work Psychology, Sheffield, United Kingdom, 19 - 21 June 2018, pp.3
In today’s competitive business world, even though young adults strive to be employed
by well-known corporations, having a degree does not guarantee an employment
opportunity. Employers prefer candidates not only with qualifications, but also with
a ‘success profile’ comprised of competencies, personal attributes, experience and
knowledge that portray a holistic view of success (DDI, 2009). This study aims to
shed light on the ‘success profile’ organizations are looking for from new graduates
regardless of the positions they are being recruited for. As part of the study, 205
participants (predominantly recruitment professionals) from both multinational and
local companies based in Istanbul, took part in an on-line survey. According to the
results, the criteria identified in order of importance were; working as part of a team,
written communication skills, analysing and gathering information (competencies);
knowledge of advanced English, degree course and prestige of university (knowledge);
internship experience, taking part in extracurricular activities, volunteer work
(experience) and; highly responsible, continuous learner and good communicator
(personal attributes). Personal attributes were followed by competencies, knowledge
and experience in terms of priority rankings. The findings and their implications will
be discussed as to how these criteria can be fostered during educational years and
beyond.
Keywords: new graduate recruitment, success profile, personal attributes, competencies