Despite increased numbers of graduates a significant number of employers still have some difficulty in filling their vacancies - according to a recent report in the recruitment press.

The latest figures suggest a rise in graduate positions of 15 per cent compared to 5 per cent last year.

The problem employers are facing is apparently not a reflection on the classification of graduate degrees, but on the softer skills such as interpersonal and communication style, work ethic, drive and motivation and commercial awareness. According to a Timebank survey, 73 per cent of employers said they would rather employ a graduate with voluntary experience.

Certainly, the talented young people we see locally as recruiters, who are looking for temporary work and work experience seem, in general terms, quite effective individuals, well equipped with all the basic interpersonal skills you would expect to prepare them for their future careers. However, these are the people who are motivated enough to get out there, find work and improve their knowledge as well as their overdraft!

Pam Stubbs, head of marketing at the University of Worcester, said: "Every student here has a personal development profile to record levels of skills such as communication, time management, presentation and to help them develop skills in all of these areas. Students have a personal tutor who will discuss progress and pinpoint strengths, and potential areas of weakness they may need to work on."

She also pointed out that 79 per cent of Worcester graduates had found employment within six months of leaving the university. A large proportion of them entered careers in the public sector, and 75 per cent remain within the West Midlands region. Local perceptions might be different, but nationally there does seem to be some consensus among employers that today's graduates lack some of the softer skills essential for the workplace.

Time spent on computers and passively consuming media on TV rather than more interactive activities have been cited as possible reasons for these findings. Whatever the truth of the matter, today's graduates will be tomorrow's workforce and leaders. If there is a problem with skills, it should be identified and acted upon now, to ensure business functions properly in the future.

Louise Hewett

www.hewett-recruitment.co.uk