Rising Demand For Freshers With Social Impact Skills: Insights From GEURS 2023-24
In the dynamic landscape of the job market, fresh graduates are finding themselves at the crossroads of traditional skill sets and a rapidly evolving professional landscape. According to the Global Employability University Ranking and Survey (GEURS) for 2023-24, there”s a notable shift in the hiring paradigm, with employers showing a growing interest in freshers possessing social impact skills. This trend is not only reshaping the hiring preferences of organisations but also signalling a transformative era where the ability to create positive change is becoming a key factor in employability.
The GEURS report, conducted by French consultancy Emerging in collaboration with Times Higher Education, sheds light on the increasing significance of social impact skills in the professional arena. Freshers actively involved in social activities are emerging as valuable assets for employers, as their ability to drive positive change within organisations is seen as a catalyst for economic growth. This revelation is particularly pertinent in the context of the BRICS countries, where such qualities rank among the top five requirements sought by employers.
The new face of leadership is softer and less formal.” As the complexities of the business world demand leaders capable of navigating intricate problems, thinking skills, awareness, and compassion are becoming crucial elements in management education. This paradigm shift highlights the need for a holistic approach to skill development that goes beyond the traditional realms of technical expertise.
The changing dynamics are not confined to the academic realm alone. There is rising significance of skills such as communication, collaboration, emotional intelligence, and time management. In a world increasingly driven by technology, these soft skills are gaining prominence as essential contributors to workplace efficiency and productivity. The ability to work cohesively in a team, empathise with colleagues, and communicate effectively is becoming differentiators in a competitive job market.
Interestingly, the GEURS report also reveals that tech schools represent 40% of the top 50 positions in its rankings. This underscores the enduring importance of digital skills and STEM subjects. While the demand for technical proficiency remains high, there”s a growing realisation that a well-rounded professional should possess a blend of technical and social impact skills. This synergy equips freshers with the versatility needed to thrive in a fast-paced and ever-changing professional environment.
The emphasis on social impact skills reflects a broader shift in organisational values. Employers are recognising the role that businesses can play in contributing positively to society, and they are seeking individuals who share this ethos. Freshers who have actively engaged in social activities, volunteer work, or projects with a societal impact are seen as potential change-makers within the organisational framework.
As the job market continues to evolve, educational institutions and employers alike are reassessing the definition of a well-rounded professional. The traditional emphasis on technical proficiency alone is giving way to a more nuanced perspective that values a holistic skill set. Freshers armed with social impact skills are not just seen as job seekers; they are perceived as potential leaders who can drive positive change, foster collaboration, and contribute to the overall success of organisations.
The GEURS report provides a valuable insight into the evolving dynamics of employability. The rise of social impact skills as a sought-after quality among freshers signals a transformative shift in the expectations of employers. It encourages educational institutions to adopt a holistic approach to skill development, preparing students not just for jobs but for leadership roles that require a blend of technical expertise and a commitment to making an impact on society. As freshers navigate the future, possessing social impact skills may well be the compass that leads them toward success in the professional landscape of tomorrow.
