What Employers Really Want: Top Skills College Graduates Need to Succeed in Today’s Job Market

Entering the workforce as a college graduate is an exciting yet daunting transition. You’ve spent years earning a degree, gaining knowledge, and developing skills. But when it comes time to land your first job, what skills do employers actually value? What makes a candidate stand out in a competitive job market?

In 2023, data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) ¹ showed that more than two million bachelor’s degrees were awarded in the U.S. — making the job market highly competitive for recent graduates. While having a degree is undoubtedly important, employers today are looking for more than just academic qualifications. They want well-rounded candidates who are prepared to thrive in the workplace, bring value to the team, and adapt to ever-changing environments.

If you’re a college graduate looking to enter the workforce, this blog will explore the top skills employers are seeking and how you can develop and showcase those skills to increase your employability. Plus, we’ll dive into resources that NMSU Global Campus offers to help students become job-market-ready.

The Job Market for College Graduates: What’s Waiting for You?

According to a 2023 National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) ² report (see page 4), 85% of 2023 bachelor’s degree graduates and 90% of master’s degree graduates were employed or pursuing further education within six months of graduation.

The same report showed that, of the 85%, 57.2% of bachelor’s degree graduates were employed full-time. This shows that while many graduates do find success quickly, it’s important to stay proactive, as not everyone secures a job right away.

The key to standing out among thousands of applicants is not just having a degree, but also possessing the right skills that make you desirable to employers. In a competitive job market, employers look for candidates who bring practical experience, soft skills, and the ability to adapt to various workplace environments.

What Are the Skills Employers Seek from an Ideal Candidate?

Employers today are looking for a diverse set of skills — both technical and soft — that will allow you to contribute meaningfully to the company’s growth. Below are the top skills employers seek in recent graduates:

1. Communication Skills

Effective communication is essential in any workplace, and employers seek candidates who can clearly convey ideas and information. This includes written communication, oral communication, and listening skills. Whether it’s sending a professional email, presenting an idea in a meeting, or simply listening to team members, clear communication is at the core of building strong relationships at work.

• Why it matters: Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings, mistakes, and inefficiencies, which can harm productivity and company morale. Strong communication skills, on the other hand, lead to better collaboration, problem-solving, and decision-making.

2. Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking

Employers need employees who can approach challenges with innovative solutions and sound reasoning. Problem-solving and critical thinking involve analyzing situations, evaluating options, and making decisions that will benefit the team or organization.

• Why it matters: In today’s fast-paced work environment, challenges are inevitable. Employers want employees who can think independently, creatively solve problems, and handle unexpected situations with confidence.

3. Adaptability and Flexibility

The workplace is constantly evolving, and the ability to adapt to new technologies, methodologies, and environments is vital for success. Employers value graduates who are flexible and can pivot when priorities shift, or when faced with new opportunities or obstacles.

• Why it matters: Companies that operate in dynamic markets require employees who can quickly learn new tools or adjust to changes in company direction. Those who show adaptability are better equipped to handle the inevitable ups and downs of any business cycle.

4. Teamwork and Collaboration

No business operates in a vacuum. Employers seek candidates who work well with others, are open to feedback, and contribute positively to group projects. Whether in-person or remote, effective teamwork is at the heart of most modern organizations.

• Why it matters: Even the most skilled individual employees need to collaborate with others to achieve organizational goals. Employers want to know that a new hire can work productively within a team, share responsibility, and build rapport with coworkers.

5. Time Management and Organizational Skills

In the age of remote work and fast-paced environments, time management is crucial. Graduates must be able to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and stay organized amidst multiple responsibilities.

• Why it matters: Employers want candidates who can efficiently manage their time and take ownership of projects without constant supervision. Effective time management leads to increased productivity and allows individuals to balance competing priorities with ease.

6. Technical Skills and Digital Literacy

While soft skills are critical, technical skills are increasingly important in today’s job market. Whether you’re entering marketing, education, engineering, or any other field, proficiency with the latest software tools, data analysis methods, or industry-specific platforms is a must.

• Why it matters: As technology continues to evolve, employers expect candidates to have a solid understanding of the tools and platforms relevant to their industry. Technical proficiency ensures that you can perform your job duties effectively and contribute to your team’s goals.

7. Leadership and Initiative

Employers are always looking for future leaders. They value recent graduates who take initiative, show leadership potential, and can motivate others to achieve collective goals. Whether you’re leading a group project in school or taking charge of a task at an internship, demonstrating leadership can set you apart.

• Why it matters: Leadership doesn’t just mean managing people — it means showing responsibility, being proactive, and influencing positive change. Employers want individuals who can take ownership of their work and make decisions that benefit the organization.

Attributes that Impact Employers’ Hiring Decisions

In addition to specific skills, there are certain personal attributes and qualities that significantly impact an employer’s hiring decision. These attributes help define how well you will fit within a company’s culture and whether you’ll thrive in a particular work environment.

1. Work Ethic and Motivation

Employers look for candidates who are hardworking, self-motivated, and take pride in their work. They want people who show up on time, meet deadlines, and consistently produce quality work.

2. Cultural Fit and Emotional Intelligence

While technical skills and qualifications are important, employers also prioritize candidates who align with their company’s values and culture. Emotional intelligence (EQ) — the ability to understand and manage emotions, both your own and those of others — is a key factor here.

3. Professionalism

Displaying professionalism in your attitude, communication, and behavior can make a big difference. Employers appreciate candidates who are reliable, courteous, and respectful in their interactions with colleagues, clients, and customers.

4. Enthusiasm and Passion

Employers love candidates who are enthusiastic about their roles and genuinely passionate about their work. A positive attitude can often be a deciding factor when choosing between two equally qualified candidates.

How to Develop and Showcase Skills to Increase Your Employability

Now that you know which skills employers value, the next step is to understand how you can develop and showcase them to stand out in the job market. Here are a few actionable strategies, along with resources from NMSU Global Campus, to help you gain and demonstrate these essential skills:

1. Take Advantage of Microlearning Courses

NMSU Global Campus offers specialized microlearning courses that focus on developing soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.

These bite-sized, on-demand courses provide you with the flexibility to enhance your skills at your own pace, all while gaining practical knowledge that aligns with employer expectations. Whether you need to sharpen your communication abilities or improve your time management, these courses are designed to make you job-ready.

• Explore the Microlearning Courses: Check out NMSU’s career development platform for an array of online courses, including those focused on leadership, collaboration, and organizational skills. You can find more about these courses here.
• Practical Application: Microlearning courses are perfect for demonstrating your commitment to personal and professional growth, making your resume stand out to employers.

Research has shown that microlearning is effective because it delivers content in small, digestible chunks, making it easier to retain and apply new skills. According to NMSU Global Campus, ³ this flexible learning approach is ideal for busy individuals who want to develop key professional skills without committing to long-term courses. The focus on soft skills, such as teamwork and time management, is particularly valuable for recent graduates entering the workforce.

2. Leverage Internships and Volunteer Work

One of the best ways to develop and showcase your skills is through hands-on experience. Participating in internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work allows you to apply the skills you’ve learned in a real-world setting. These experiences give you tangible examples of your skills, which are invaluable during interviews and on your resume.

• Showcase Results: Make sure to highlight any projects or initiatives where you successfully used your problem-solving, time management, or leadership abilities.

3. Build a Strong Online Presence

Employers increasingly use platforms like LinkedIn to assess candidates’ skills and professional backgrounds. A well-maintained LinkedIn profile showcasing your skills, experiences, and certifications can significantly boost your visibility and credibility.

• LinkedIn Learning: Complement your NMSU Global Campus courses with additional certifications on LinkedIn Learning to build your profile further and attract recruiters.

4. Engage in Group Projects or Team-Based Activities

Effective collaboration is one of the most sought-after skills. To demonstrate your teamwork abilities, engage in group projects during your academic studies or participate in extracurricular activities that involve team-based goals. These experiences allow you to refine communication, conflict resolution, and project management skills in real-time.

5. Utilize Career Services at NMSU Global Campus

NMSU Global Campus provides access to career services that help you market your skills effectively. These services include resume building, interview coaching, and networking opportunities. By leveraging these resources, you can fine-tune how you present your skills to potential employers.

• Resume Building and Interview Preparation: NMSU offers personalized guidance to help you showcase your skills clearly and confidently, ensuring that you make a positive first impression.
• Networking Opportunities: Take advantage of virtual career fairs and industry webinars hosted by NMSU Global Campus to connect with potential employers and expand your professional network.

6. Demonstrate Leadership in Everyday Activities

You don’t need a formal title to demonstrate leadership. Taking the initiative in class projects, volunteering to lead student organizations, or organizing events are all ways to show your leadership potential. Being proactive in any role speaks volumes to employers about your ability to motivate others and drive results.

By actively developing these skills and showcasing them through real-world experiences, you can boost your employability and become a more attractive candidate in today’s competitive job market.

How NMSU Global Campus Helps Students Prepare for the Job Market

At NMSU Global Campus, students are provided with numerous resources to ensure they’re job-market-ready. The online programs allow students to work on their degrees at their own pace while developing the skills employers are looking for. The programs emphasize communication, critical thinking, and time management — all essential qualities for today’s job market.

In addition to academic development, NMSU Global Campus offers career services that provide support with resume building, interview preparation, job search strategies, and networking. By taking advantage of these resources, graduates are well-equipped to enter the workforce confidently.

Moreover, the programs at NMSU Global Campus in areas like educational leadership and business management provide opportunities for hands-on experience through internships or capstone projects, giving students a practical edge that enhances their resume.

Setting You Up for Job Market Success

As a college graduate, the job market may feel overwhelming, but by developing and showcasing the skills employers value most — from communication and problem-solving to adaptability and technical proficiency — you’ll significantly improve your chances of landing your first job and succeeding in your career.

NMSU Global Campus offers not only a strong academic foundation but also the tools and resources to help students develop the skills needed to thrive in today’s competitive job market. By taking the time to refine both your technical and soft skills, you’ll be well-prepared to meet the expectations of employers and secure a fulfilling career.

Ready to get started? Explore 70+ career-relevant programs at NMSU Global Campus and begin your journey to career success today.

References

1. “Degrees Conferred by Degree-granting Postsecondary Institutions, by Level of Degree and Sex of Student: Selected Years, 1869-70 Through 2023-24.” National Center for Education Statistics, last accessed 19 February 2025.

2. “First Destinations for the College Class of 2023 Findings  and Analysis.” National Association of Colleges And Employers, October 2024.

3. “NMSU Global Campus to Offer Microlearning Courses on Soft Skills.” NMSU Newsroom, 29 January 2025.