Why the current job market has been such a bad match for the college degree and recent grads
How are large corporations like Verizon valuing soft skills?
Large corporations like Verizon are increasingly valuing soft skills, such as collaboration, critical thinking, and empathy, as essential qualities in their employees. Verizon's Chief Talent and Diversity Officer, Christina Schelling, emphasizes that these skills are more important than ever, as they are harder to teach than technical skills. In interviews, candidates must highlight their appetite for continuous growth and intellectual curiosity, as companies are investing in employees and committed to building skills.
What is causing the bifurcation in the current labor market?
The bifurcation in the current labor market is caused by a higher demand for jobs that don't require a college degree, outpacing demand for those that do1. This is due to factors such as the aging baby boomer generation leaving the workforce, creating openings in trades and other non-degree roles, and a mismatch between the needs of employers and the skills and interests of recent graduates.
Why are non-degree jobs seeing an increase in openings?
Non-degree jobs are seeing an increase in openings due to a shift in employer preferences towards skills-based hiring, which focuses on a candidate's competencies and ability to learn new skills rather than their educational background. This shift has been driven by talent shortages in certain industries, the rise of self-learning resources, and the recognition that skills and experience can often outweigh formal education in certain fields.