Hire education

Canadian companies are recruiting more graduates than five years ago

Eighty per cent of Canadian executives say their organizations are at least as active if not more active in hiring graduates than they were five years ago, according to a recent survey.

“As the hiring environment has become increasingly competitive, demand for recent graduates also has risen,” said Max Messmer, chairman of Accountemps.

The survey by staffing specialist firm Accountemps includes responses from 100 senior executives from human resources, finance and marketing departments.

Of those surveyed, 13 per cent confirmed that they are significantly more active in hiring entry-level university and college grads and 25 per cent were somewhat more active. A little under half, at 42 per cent, indicated that they were about as active now as they were five years ago.

There are some organizations that have a less voracious appetite for new grads. Six per cent of executives polled said their firms are somewhat less active in recruiting graduates. Three per cent indicated they are significantly less active and a surprising nine per cent of executives said their organizations don't hire college or university graduates at all.

Employers can attract recent graduates by highlighting the opportunities for growth and development in the position, as well as the level of compensation.

“Education doesn’t end with graduation," said Messmer. "The first position out of university or college should provide learning opportunities that will serve as building blocks for future career success.”

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