Lack of graduate skills concerning employers

Some graduates are leaving university ill-equipped for the world of work, a new survey has revealed.

The Association of Graduate Recruiters spoke to over 200 employers and found that 56.4% believe university-leavers lack 'hard skills' such as writing and literacy, while a significant proportion were also concerned about their limited maths and IT abilities.

In addition, 55% feel graduates have a shortage of soft skills, including the ability to communicate effectively.

The report also looked at salaries for those with degrees and found they are not keeping pace with rising inflation, remaining relatively static between 2007 and 2008.

Carl Gilleard, Chief Executive of the AGR, commented: 'Although employers are still hiring, this year's survey shows the smallest rise in graduate salaries in recent years and in most cases employers will offer no more than a cost of living rise next year.'

This follows a recent suggestion by the Prime Minister that businesses do not offer their employees pay rises that match the rate of inflation this year.