Employers' Wish List

Each year, the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) asks employers to rate the importance of certain skills when hiring. Visit your career coach to identify strategies to develop these skills through internships, involvement, study abroad, etc.

Employers' Wish List
Communication Skills (verbal) 4.65
Strong Work Ethic 4.61
Teamwork Skills 4.59
Analytical Skills 4.56
Initiative 4.50
Problem-Solving Skills 4.48
Communication Skills (written) 4.48
Interpersonal Skills 4.40
Computer Skills 4.38
Flexibility/adaptability 4.37
Detail-oriented 4.18
Technical Skills 4.16
Organizational Skills 4.05
Leadership Skills 4.04

Weighted average. Based on a 5-point scale where 1=Not at all important; 2=Not very important; 3=Somewhat important; 4=Very important; 5=Extremely important


Sources: Job Outlook, 2011, National Association of Colleges and Employers