“Perfect” Job Candidate Pairs Communication Skills With Strong Work Ethic. The “perfect” candidate for the job is a top-notch communicator and a hard worker, according to employers responding to the Job Outlook 2008 survey, conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).
..... But that’s not all employers look for when sizing up new college graduates as potential employees.
..... “Each year, when we ask employers to rate the importance of a variety of skills and abilities, communication comes out on top,” says Marilyn Mackes. “At the same time, however, employers view many other attributes as critical. This year, for example, employers cite the ability to work in a team, interpersonal and problem-solving skills, and initiative as among their most preferred qualities. They’re looking for the well-rounded candidate who can work well with others and function effectively in the workplace.”
..... Read the rest of the December 2007 article here.

Employers Cite Communication Skills, Honesty/Integrity as Key for Job Candidates What does it take to be the "ideal" job candidate? Employers have a tall order, but communication skills are at the top of their list in what they look for in potential employees, according to a report from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).
Employers responding to NACE's Job Outlook 2007 survey named communication skills and honesty/integrity as a job seeker's most important skills and qualities. (See Figure 1.)
..... "Communication skills have topped the list for eight years, and honesty and integrity have tied for the top spot for the last three years," says Marilyn Mackes, NACE executive director.
..... Read the rest of the March 2007 article here.

Employers Identify the Skills, Qualities of the "Ideal Candidate" "College students who wish to separate themselves from the competition during their job search would be wise to develop proficiencies most sought by employers, such as communication, interpersonal, and teamwork skills, according to a survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers."
..... Read the rest of the January 2004 article here.

"Communications Skills Top Employers' Wish List--Again. "As has been the case for the past several years, communications skills top the list of personal qualities/skills employers seek in new hires. Trailing closely behind are honesty/integrity, teamwork skills, interpersonal skills, and motivation/initiative. The 'perfect' candidate also has some type of relevant work experience to offer. All in all, the skills and qualities employers look for in candidates reflect the needs of the 21st century workplace, which increasingly requires employees to work in teams, interact effectively with co-workers and customers, and manage job responsibilities without being spoon fed." -- National Association of Colleges and Employers, NACE Job Outlook 2001, p 6.

Every year the National Association of Colleges and Employers conducts a national survey of employers to find out what they're looking for in job candidates.

In 2008 the results showed employers were looking for the following: Communication skills Strong work ethic Teamwork skills Initiative Interpersonal skills Problem-solving skills Analytical skills Flexibility/adaptability Computer skills Technical skills Detail-oriented Organizational skills Source: NCEA Pressroom	In 2007 the results showed employers were looking for the following: Communication skills (verbal and written) Honesty/integrity Interpersonal skills (relates well to others) Motivation/initiative Strong work ethic Teamwork skills (works well with others) Source: NCEA Pressroom
In 2003 the results showed employers were looking for the following: Communication Skills Honesty/Integrity Teamwork Skills Interpersonal Skills Motivation/Initiative Source: NACE Press Room	In 2001 the results showed employers were looking for the following: Communication Skills (verbal and written) Honesty/Integrity Teamwork Skills Interpersonal Skills Motivation/Initiative Strong Work Ethic Analystical Skills Flexibility/adaptability Computer Skills Self Confidence
In 2000 the results were: Communication Skills Motivation/Initiative Teamwork Skills Leadership Skills Academic Achievement/GPA Interpersonal Skills Flexibility/Adaptability Technical Skills Honesty/Integrity Work Ethic Analytic/problem solving skills (tie) Analytic/problem solving skills (tie)	The results in 1997: Interpersonal Skills Teamwork Skills Analytical Skills Oral Communication Skills Flexibility Computer Skills Written Communication Leadership Work Experience Internship
In 1994 and 1995 the top five skills, in rank order, were: Oral Communication Skills Interpersonal Skills Teamwork Skills Flexibility Analytical Skills	In 1993 the top five skills, in rank order, were: Proficiency in field of study Oral Communication Skills Interpersonal Skills Teamwork Skills Analytical Skills

The survies consistently show that the kind of skills developed by Communication majors are highly valued by all kinds of employers. Courses and activities in this department both teach and make use of the skills ranked at or near the top of the list since1993. Students with a degree in Communication are ready to excel in a wide variety of careers. Below are listed some broad categories that most commonly come to mind:

Education (including elementary, high school, and college) Law Dispute Resolution Business Management Marketing Sales Advertising Public Relations

Social Advocacy Communication Consulting Computer Services Radio Broadcasting TV Broadcasting Administration Politics Corporate Training and Development