More than three-quarters of employers say graduates are essential to their future workforce

Carried out ahead of this year's A-Level Results Day, the national research conducted with 500 senior employers by Opinion Matters and Leeds Beckett University found that 77% believe recruiting university graduates will be essential as part of their future workforce strategy.

The findings also highlight the long-term value employers place on graduates. Nearly nine in ten (87%) said graduates are helping their organisations tackle skills shortages, while seven in ten (71%) believe graduates deliver greater value in the workplace than non-graduates entering similar roles.

Beyond technical knowledge, employers say graduates are valued for the versatile skills they bring into the workplace. Almost half (47%) identified problem-solving as the most valuable skill graduates offer, while nearly a third (29%) said transferable skills such as communication, teamwork and adaptability are what they value most. More than a third (38%) also said graduates' ability to learn quickly gives them an advantage over other applicants, while the same proportion highlighted digital skills as a key strength.

While subject knowledge remains important, employers are increasingly looking beyond academic achievement alone. Nine in ten (90%) employers said a graduate's degree subject is important when recruiting for graduate-level roles, although fewer than one in five (18%) said it is extremely important. The research also found that 38% of employers value creativity as a graduate attribute, suggesting businesses are increasingly seeking candidates who can bring fresh thinking to a rapidly changing workplace.

Practical experience also remains a key factor in graduate employability. More than nine in ten employers (93%) said work placements or industry experience completed during university are important or essential when recruiting graduates, reinforcing the value of degree programmes that combine academic learning with real-world experience.

With A-Level Results Day just around the corner, the research offers insight into the decisions many students will soon be making. From considering university to exploring opportunities through Clearing, the findings paint a picture of a labour market that continues to place significant value on graduates, particularly those who can demonstrate the wider skills and practical experience employers increasingly demand.

Commenting on the research, Professor Peter Slee, Vice-Chancellor at Leeds Beckett University, said:

"As students prepare to receive their A-Level results and consider their next steps, it's important they understand what employers are looking for and the opportunities available to them.

"Whether students secure their first-choice university, explore alternative options through Clearing, or are still weighing up different pathways, this research shows that employers continue to place significant value on graduates and the skills developed through higher education.

"Businesses are telling us they need people who can solve problems, think critically, adapt to change and continue learning throughout their careers. These are exactly the kinds of capabilities that universities help students develop alongside subject knowledge and industry experience.”

One organisation seeing the benefits of graduate talent first-hand is Leeds Rhinos, where Leeds Beckett alumni form an important part of the workforce, bringing valuable skills and experience to roles across the club.

Rob Oates, Managing Director at Leeds Rhinos, said:

"Graduates play an important role across our organisation, bringing strong problem-solving skills, adaptability and a willingness to learn. In a fast-paced environment like professional sport, these qualities are invaluable, helping us address skills needs across the business. Our close relationship with Leeds Beckett University continues to provide us with talented individuals who make a real difference on and off the field."

For more information about Leeds Beckett University, please visit https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/.