These days, graduates are making much sharper, targeted job applications, so to attract the best candidates, employers need to look beyond academic grades and assess each candidate’s employability. We like to call this the ‘e-factor’.

We’ve noticed a 37% drop in the total number of graduate applications our clients are receiving this year. That’s quite substantial when you consider we’re handling 120,000 graduate applications annually across 42 countries. Graduates are simply becoming a lot more selective and focused in their early career aspirations. And with a smaller pool of more ‘picky’ graduates to choose from, employability is now more important than ever.

So what’s at the heart of the ‘e-factor’? This all depends on what’s important to your company. The most popular qualities sought by companies are commercial awareness, curiosity, flexibility and resilience. Take time to brainstorm the qualities that will help grow your business.

We recommend that employers hone in on their ‘e-factor’ criteria right at the beginning of the process, before issuing any job specifications. Prioritising what’s important right at the start helps to save time and pinpoint the best candidates more accurately.

Be explicit about what you’re looking for and really get to grips with what the candidate has to offer in commercial terms. Could you see them juggling a busy workload, interacting positively with customers or spotting new business opportunities, for instance? Do they have relevant work experience or have they achieved highly in extra-curricular activities?

Once you’ve decided on your ‘e-factor’ criteria, stick to them and don’t compromise. If graduates are being unrealistic in their salary, training or career expectations, challenge them – what can they offer the company and how will they add value?

Good luck! If you have any queries on how to streamline your graduate recruitment process or want to know more about our proven tools and tactics for assessing graduates’ values and commercial potential, please don’t hesitate to contact me at jerry.collier@alexmann.com or t:020 7832 2786. For updates, you can follow AMS on Twitter @weareAMS.