New Poll Indicates Stable Hiring Prospects for Class of 2009
In a survey conducted by CollegeGrad.com, the #1 entry-level job site on the Internet, 86 percent of graduating seniors expect to graduate without a job offer. Yet employers expect hiring levels to hold steady this year, according to a survey sponsored by The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). The survey shows that while the current economy may have dampened the hopes of new college graduates, it hasn't necessarily affected their employment prospects.
FOSTER CITY, CA -- June 5, 2009 -- The #1 entry-level job site CollegeGrad.com recently released survey results indicating widespread concern among graduating seniors about job prospects. Of 1,725 respondents, only 233 students expect to have a job offer in hand when they graduate.
According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), however, employers expect to hire about the same number of college graduates this year as in 2008.
NACE's Job Outlook 2009, which collects survey data from employers, reports that expectations for the Class of 2009 are still 1.3 percent ahead of the Class of 2008's actual hires. The report strikes a note of cautious optimism, projecting very little growth in the hiring levels over the Class of 2008, but more importantly, no expected decline.
With industry indicators showing glimmers of a market comeback, this year's college graduates have reason for optimism -- even if they don't land a job before graduation. Patience, persistence and flexibility are the keys to finding a job in a competitive economy.
"My number one piece of advice is to not give up hope," says Adeola Ogunwole, Director of Marketing and Public Relations for CollegeGrad.com. "Don't let the stress of the job search overtake your life. Put it all in balance. Stay healthy, both mentally and physically."
Maintaining a positive, upbeat attitude can give you an edge in a bleak job market. Ogunwole counsels students to focus on opportunities rather than rejections.
"Expand your network and career path prospects -- many employers are opening up positions for internships and volunteer opportunities," says Ogunwole. "While not ideal, these positions do give you a foot in the door and can lead to permanent employment."
Internships offer employers a cost-effective alternative to hiring full-time employees and give new graduates an opportunity to learn the ropes and establish important industry contacts. When the job market revives, interns are often first in line to interview for a full-time position.
CollegeGrad.com features a range of resources to support recent graduates in today's competitive job market. In addition to job listings and advice, visitors to the site will find a section specifically dedicated to internship opportunities. Taking advantage of all available resources can help graduates rise above the economic slump and join the ranks of full-time professionals.
CollegeGrad.com survey results:
In response to the question, Seniors, do you think you will have an offer in hand by graduation?
- Yes: 233
- No: 1,492
The survey was conducted nationally using an online poll placed on the CollegeGrad.com home page during May 2009. The results are based on 1725 respondents.
About CollegeGrad.com:
CollegeGrad.com is the #1 entry-level job site on the Internet and is the leader in the field of entry-level job search.
CONTACT INFO: Adeola Ogunwole, CollegeGrad.com, 1-800-991-4642 or contact us online.
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