HPU’s C-Suite Survey on Life Skills

Employers consistently report that new hires don’t work out for reasons that include lack of motivation, emotional intelligence, coachability, technical competence and temperament. The study featured here, conducted by High Point University, is one example of these reports. HPU faculty listen to the demands of the marketplace and prepare students to excel in the areas that matter most.

HPU asked 500 C-level executives who represent organizations with 5,000 to 25,000 employees a series of questions about their experiences in hiring recent college graduates. Here are their responses:

Of these two sets of skills, which would you rather colleges instill in recent college graduates?

Q. A.

Technical Skills such as specific software, hardware or specialized training on a specific subject

Life Skills such as the ability to communicate, collaborate, solve problems and adapt

35% 65%

Of these two sets of skills, which do you think colleges and universities are best instilling in recent college graduates?

Q. A.

Technical Skills such as specific software, hardware or specialized training on a specific subject Life Skills such as the ability to communicate, collaborate, solve problems and adapt

33%

A. Q.

When you hire recent college graduates, what are the reasons they fail?

HPU has conducted multiple surveys. To see them all, including a recent 2022 survey, scan this QR code or visit www.highpoint.edu/survey to receive your complimentary copy of HPU’s Life Skills Executive Survey.

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