Hiring Looks Bright for 2019 Graduates

Follow your passion. Find your dream job. Receive your first paycheck. For the graduating class of 2019, global staffing firm Robert Half’s research suggests the chances of being hired are good. According to a survey of employers across the United States, 83 percent of senior managers are likely to hire those who’ve recently earned a college degree.

The top benefits cited for hiring individuals right out of school include their enthusiasm about starting a career (35 percent) and their fresh perspective and ideas (28 percent).

Senior managers were asked, “How likely is it that your company will hire new college graduates in 2019?” Their responses*:

Very likely: 41%

Somewhat likely: 42%

Somewhat unlikely: 13%

Very unlikely: 5%

101%

*Responses do not total 100 percent due to rounding.

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Senior managers were also asked, “What is the top benefit of hiring new graduates?” Their responses:

They are enthusiastic about starting a new career: 35%

They provide fresh perspective and ideas: 28%

They learn quickly and are easy to train: 18%

They have strong technical skills and are digital natives: 16%

Other: 3%

100%

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View an infographic of the survey results, including 10 cities where companies are most likely to hire new college graduates.

Additional Findings

Senior managers at companies with at least 500 employees are more likely to hire new college graduates than are those at smaller companies, according to the research.
The cities with employers most inclined to hire recent graduates include Miami, Raleigh and Austin.
The candidate market is tight, so employers are more open to hiring and training employees who lack the required skills. In a separate Robert Half survey, seven out of 10 employers said they would consider hiring and training candidates who lack the required skills.

“Job prospects are bright for the class of 2019,” said Paul McDonald, senior executive director for Robert Half. “Employers are open to bringing on entry-level job candidates straight out of college. First-time job seekers, who are often digital natives, can increase their marketability by displaying their technology experience, positive energy and a willingness to learn.”

McDonald added, “Companies interested in hiring new college graduates should highlight what makes their firm a great place to work on their website, in job descriptions and when meeting with applicants. A thoughtful and thorough onboarding process is essential for then getting entry-level talent off on the right foot.”

Visit the Robert Half blog for more advice on hiring new grads and starting a first job.