Insights from the Talent Survey 2024

In today’s competitive job market, understanding what potential talent values in an employer is crucial. Universum's Talent Survey 2024 provides a comprehensive look at the key attributes that attract students to employers. This blog offers a concise summary of the insights and practical advice found in the eBook "Bridging the Perception Gap: Insights from the Talent Survey 2024 for Future-Proofing Your Employer Brand." By understanding these findings, employers can align their offerings with the expectations of the emerging workforce.  

What are Attributes? 

Attributes, as defined in Universum’s research, are distinct characteristics or qualities offered by an employer that influence an individual's decision to seek or maintain employment with that organization. These attributes encompass various aspects of the work environment, compensation, career development, company culture, values, and benefits. Universum’s framework breaks down these attributes into four categories: Employer Reputation and Image, People and Culture, Remuneration and Advancement Opportunities, and Job Characteristics. 

Universum’s Talent Survery 2024: What were the Findings?  

According to the Talent Survey 2024, the top ten attributes that students value most are: 

 1. High future earnings 

2. Secure employment 

3. Professional training and development 

4. Good reference for future career 

5. A friendly work environment 

6. Competitive base salary 

7. Encouraging work-life balance 

8. Flexible working conditions 

9. Respect for its people 

10. Clear path for advancement 

These attributes highlight the importance of financial stability, career growth, and a supportive work environment. However, to truly understand what students value, we must dive deeper into specific attributes that often generate questions from employers. 

Bridging the Perception Gap 

While there is often alignment between students and employers on the importance of certain attributes, there are also notable perception gaps. For example, attributes like Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), Sustainability, and Inspiring Leadership are often perceived to be different in the eyes of young talent, compared to what employers believe these attributes mean. 

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) 

Students have a broad and nuanced understanding of DEI, emphasizing fair treatment, equal opportunities, and the consideration of diverse perspectives. Interestingly, while having a diverse workforce is important, students rank it lower compared to fair treatment and equal opportunities. 

Sustainability 

Contrary to the common assumption that sustainability is solely about environmental practices, students prioritize investment in employee development. This includes continuous learning, reskilling, and professional growth opportunities. 

Inspiring Leadership 

Students prioritize honest leaders with strong integrity and a solid work ethic. They also value compassion and vision in their leaders, indicating a preference for ethical behavior and strategic foresight.  

What does this mean?  

These are just a few examples of the attributes featured in the eBook where young talents’ perception differs from what employers interpret these attributes to mean. For a full deep-dive into these insights, backed with actionable strategies and key takeaways, download the eBook today!   

What’s next? Future-Proofing Your Employer Brand 

Capitalizing on the insights from the Talent Survey 2024 can help future-proof your employer brand. Here is a sneak peek into some strategic approaches covered in the eBook that can benefit your organization and help future-proof your employer brand: 

1. Make Data-Driven Decisions: Use survey data to understand talent preferences and tailor your employer branding strategies accordingly.  Wondering where to start with these insights? Take advantage of your FREE 14 day trial with Universum’s Insights Platform! 

2. Localized Messaging: Customize your employer brand messages to resonate with specific regional and market preferences.  At Universum, we’re ready to work together to ensure you can atttract the right talent, because afterall, we know talent. While the eBook focuses on data points from a global average, contact us today to go through local specific data!

3. Continuous Improvement: Regularly update your employer brand to reflect changing employee expectations and market trends. 

By acting on these insights and leveraging Universum's expertise, your organization can become an employer of choice, capable of attracting and retaining top talent in a competitive market. Secure your future success by aligning your employer brand with the evolving expectations of the workforce.