Employers are looking for job candidates with ethical judgment, adaptability, and critical thinking, according to Drexel University’s 2025 Annual College Hiring Outlook Report. The 54th edition of this yearly analysis, produced by Drexel’s LeBow College of Business, highlights how the job market is changing and the skills graduates need to succeed.
The report emphasizes that students should learn not only technical skills but also qualities like resilience and integrity to make a lasting impact in their fields.
“Shifts in starting salaries and hiring incentives show how important it is to adapt,” the report’s authors note. “Colleges like Drexel must prepare graduates to thrive in a competitive job market.”
A Shaky Job Market
More than 1,300 companies—from small businesses to major players in tech, finance, healthcare, education, and manufacturing—shared insights on hiring trends. While demand remains steady for bachelor’s degree holders, especially in technical fields, companies are adjusting how they hire for advanced degrees to meet tighter budgets and specific needs.
Optimism among employers is at its lowest since 2014. Only 21% rate the job market as “excellent” or “very good,” reflecting economic uncertainty. Industries like retail, manufacturing, and construction, which are sensitive to economic shifts, are hiring cautiously.
Other signs of restraint include fewer signing bonuses and relocation packages, as well as slower salary growth. Over half of employers say starting pay is staying the same as last year.
Lifelong Learning Takes Center Stage
Despite a cooler job market, many companies are investing in skill development. Nearly 89% of large firms offer structured programs for upskilling and reskilling employees, and smaller companies are making similar efforts, though with fewer resources.
Technology continues to reshape hiring. Big companies use artificial intelligence for tasks like resume screening and interview scheduling, while smaller ones lag due to cost constraints. Large firms also lead in virtual recruitment, while smaller and mid-sized companies stick to traditional methods.
Hiring from underrepresented groups has fallen, with 44% of companies doing so in 2025 compared to 54% last year. The report links this decline to reduced spending on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, especially at companies scaling back hiring.
Advice for Students and Employers
The report urges colleges to focus on teaching skills like ethical decision-making, adaptability, and professionalism. It also highlights the importance of internships and co-op programs to help students gain in-demand skills and adapt to hybrid and remote work.
For students, standing out means building technical expertise, improving time management, and taking advantage of online courses and networking.
Employers are encouraged to invest in training programs, use AI wisely in hiring, and mix virtual and in-person strategies to reach more candidates. Offering hybrid work options can also help attract top talent.
The report wraps up with details on hiring trends by region, starting salary data, and advice for improving recruitment efforts. It shows that despite challenges, employers and graduates alike can take steps to succeed in a rapidly changing job market.
