College graduates face a harsh reality regarding their career prospects. According to the New York Times, recent graduates are entering the toughest job market in the last quarter of a century; only 56 percent are employed in jobs that require a college degree, 22 percent are working in jobs that do not require a college degree, and 22.4 percent aren’t working at all.
These circumstances aren’t limited to recent graduates. Underemployment among workers with a bachelor’s or higher degree rose from 3.9 percent in December 2007 to 8.4 percent in March 2011, an increase larger than any other segment of the economy.
The widespread and persistent nature of under-and unemployment in a group that is technically skilled and educated suggests that this demographic lacks the skill set necessary to obtain employment.
Are You Employable? examines what employers really want in their new hires — and finds interpersonal skills come out on top.