The Skills and Attributes Top Employers Look for in Graduates

Picture yourself ready to step out of the university bubble and into the world of work. Have you ever wondered what makes some graduates stand out in a competitive market of job seekers?

It's not just about having that degree in hand. It's about who you are and how you navigate the world. So, let's delve deeper and look at the skills and attributes employers want today.

What are employers looking for?

Think about it. When challenges come knocking, employers are looking for more than just someone who can do the job. They're on the hunt for people who can ride the waves of change and turn challenges into triumphs. 

That's where being self-aware and resilient comes into play. Knowing your strengths and how to bounce back from setbacks isn't just good life advice - it's what makes you a standout candidate.

And here's the thing: our world is more connected than ever. Companies aren't just local; they're global. Being a global citizen, i.e., someone who appreciates diversity and can adapt to various cultural contexts, makes you a valuable asset to any team.

What about communication? Being an effective communicator is vital in a world buzzing with tweets, posts, and chats. It's not just about what you say but how you say it. Employers are looking for graduates who can articulate ideas clearly and connect with people, whether they're colleagues, clients, or customers.

But what about when things get tough? The business world loves a problem-solver - someone who doesn't just crumble under pressure but sees it as a puzzle to solve. Combine that with a dash of enterprising spirit, and you've got the recipe for a graduate who's not just ready to take on the world but to reshape it.

Flexibility is another golden trait. Being adaptable and open to new experiences is like having a superpower in an ever-evolving job market. It shows you're not just prepared for today's challenges but tomorrow's as well.

Of course, no one goes it alone. Collaboration is the name of the game in most workplaces. Employers want team players who can bring others together, build on ideas, and turn collective goals into reality.

Confidence and lifelong learning are the cherries on top of the cake. Believing in yourself and your ability to grow and learn isn't just inspiring; it's infectious. It makes you the kind of graduate who doesn't just chase opportunities but creates them.

So, how do you wrap all these attributes into one impressive package?

That's where the University of Bolton's GAME initiative comes in. It's not just about building these skills; it's about integrating them into your very being, so when you step into an interview, you're not just listing qualities but embodying them.

GAME, the Graduate Attributes Matrix for Employability developed by Bolton University, is a unique framework designed to ensure that you not only acquire but also effectively integrate the top skills and attributes employers seek.

This initiative helps you to self-assess and continuously develop your employability skills throughout your university experience. By engaging in various activities, from academic work to extracurricular involvement, you can document and reflect on your growth in 10 key areas, making you not just a graduate but a standout candidate in the job market.

If you want to learn more, please do not hesitate to contact our friendly team at enquiries@bolton.ac.uk or call 01204 903903.