That’s according to new research by CEMS Global Alliance of Business Schools, which surveyed more than 750 recent business graduates from almost 60 countries and asked their top priorities as they embark on the early stages of their career.
And the findings indicate, as CEMS Executive Director Roland Siegers says, that “for this generation, work is not all about money”.
“A good work/life balance is more important than ever,” he said, noting that the findings indicate a change of values around leading well-rounded lives and making a positive impact on others.
Still, the study found that new business graduates are ambitious and driven — and they are expecting leadership positions and rapid career progression.
Three quarters (75 per cent) of respondents said they expected to have an executive level role within 10 years, while a quarter (25 per cent) expected to achieve this level within five years.
In order, the business graduates’ top job-seeking criteria are:
- Salary
- Work life balance
- Opportunities for quick career progression
- Impact at an early stage
- Opportunities for global travel
- Inspirational leadership