In today’s competitive job market, the transition from college to the workplace can be a daunting leap for many graduates. A recent Pollfish survey of 1,000 hiring managers across the United States reveals a troubling trend: approximately 70% of companies have found it necessary to place some of their new hires on performance improvement plans. This statistic underscores a critical gap in the preparation of college graduates as they embark on their professional journeys.
The survey highlights several key reasons why nearly 80% of managers indicated that their new hires did not meet expectations in their first year. Topping the list of grievances is the excessive use of cellphones, which 78% of managers cited as their biggest pet peeve. This behavior is not just a distraction; it signals a lack of professionalism and respect for the workplace environment. Moreover, 61% of managers noted a sense of entitlement or sensitivity among recent graduates, while 57% pointed out that many new hires were unprepared for the realities of the workplace.
The data further reveals that a lack of work ethic, poor communication skills, and insufficient technical skills are significant barriers to success in the early careers of these graduates. Specifically, 54% of managers mentioned the absence of a strong work ethic, and 48% highlighted ineffective communication as a major concern. Additional issues such as tardiness, failure to meet deadlines, unprofessional conduct, and inappropriate attire compound the challenges faced by new employees.
Irina Pichura, a career coach with Resume.org, emphasizes that colleges often fail to equip students with essential workplace behaviors. “Colleges don’t teach students how to behave in the workplace, and there is a lack of transitional support from both universities and employers,” she explains. Pichura advocates for the implementation of workplace training programs in colleges to ease graduates’ transition into professional environments. Such initiatives could bridge the existing gap between academic learning and practical application, ensuring that students are better prepared for the expectations of employers.
Clark Lowe, CEO of O’Connor Co., a national commercial construction firm, echoes Pichura’s sentiments. “Colleges do a disservice to students in not preparing them for work,” he states, expressing frustration over the increasing sense of entitlement he perceives in the latest generation of graduates. Lowe, who has also taught graduate business courses, notes that many professors lack real-world experience, which can limit the practical insights they provide to students. This disconnect between academia and industry can leave graduates ill-equipped to navigate the complexities of the workforce.
In a company like O’Connor Co., where Lowe oversees a diverse team of 60 employees, the importance of previous work experience cannot be overstated. “We look for individuals who show initiative and drive,” he says. “Previous work experience is a must, regardless of the field.” This experience—whether gained at a gas station or in retail—teaches responsibility, time management, and a solid work ethic, all of which are critical for success in any professional setting.
The Pollfish survey further reveals that only 58% of companies plan to hire from the class of 2025, with one in six hiring managers expressing hesitation about hiring recent graduates altogether. For those who are open to considering new Generation Z graduates, desirable traits include initiative, a positive attitude, a strong work ethic, adaptability, and a willingness to receive feedback.
Pichura offers practical advice for recent graduates looking to stand out in the hiring process. She suggests that candidates come prepared with research and ideas for the interview, using the “STAR” method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to illustrate their problem-solving abilities. Once employed, new hires should actively seek opportunities to take ownership of their tasks, solicit feedback, and exceed the expectations of their roles. “Being reliable, meeting deadlines, and treating every task with care and intention builds trust and credibility early on,” she emphasizes.
In conclusion, the pathway from college to career is fraught with challenges for many graduates. By addressing these gaps in preparation and fostering a more robust connection between academic institutions and the workforce, we can better equip the next generation of professionals. As hiring managers like Lowe and experts like Pichura remind us, the responsibility lies not just with the graduates but also with educational institutions to ensure that students are ready to thrive in their chosen fields.
