Demand for graduates is the highest for a decade_2
17 September 2012
Demand for graduates is at its highest level for more than 10 years, according to research from the AssociatDemand for graduates is at its highest level for more than 10 years, according to research from the Association of Graduate Recruiters (AGR).
The AGR released the survey to coincide with its annual conference this week.
Vacancies are up 16.7% on last year, showing that there is a booming job market for university and polytechnic leavers. Median starting salaries have also risen, going up 2.9%, to £23,136, set against £22,000 last year.
However, the higher levels of demand have seen the average number of applications per vacancy drop to 28, compared with 33 last year.
The survey also showed that team-working, flexibility, oral communication and adaptability were the most desired skills by recruiters, along with customer focus and problem-solving.
Retention levels were also high. Of graduates recruited in 2005, 91% were still with the same organisation.
More than a quarter of those questioned felt that the standard of candidates applying for jobs was actually higher this year, with only 15% suggesting that the standard had dropped.
Carl Gilleard, AGR chief executive, said: "The results of our latest survey show the graduate market is continuing to grow, which is great news for the Class of 2006.
"Organisations are still seeing the added value graduates can bring with vacancies rising significantly and salaries continuing to grow."
However, he sounded a warning. "Graduate recruiters must not get complacent; a new generation of students with different needs and wants may require a different approach to recruitment.
"Perhaps this slight fall in the number of applications per vacancy may be a warning to recruiters that they need to remain competitive."
The bi-annual survey, of 235 AGR members across the public and private sectors, was carried out in May and the results were announced at the AGR conference at Celtic Manor, south 