[University Transformation] ⑤ Qualities HR Managers Seek in Talent: "Creativity, Communication, and Character Over Credentials"

"Attitude and Practical Skills": The Core Criteria Companies Use to Evaluate New Hires
The Ideal Employee: A Balance of Creativity, a Spirit of Challenge, and Practical Skills
Reflecting Industrial Restructuring: Two-Thirds of Companies Prefer Major

The qualities that major domestic companies require from university graduates are not limited to academic records or certifications. Instead, companies are seeking well-rounded individuals who combine expertise with creativity and a positive attitude. At the same time, there is criticism that university education still fails to keep pace with these demands.

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According to a survey conducted by Asia Economy from September 15 to 19, targeting human resources and recruitment managers at the top 30 companies, the most important factor evaluated in the recruitment process for new employees was diligence, sincerity, and a sense of responsibility (23.3%). This was followed by major-related and professional knowledge (20.0%), creative problem-solving ability (16.7%), and work experience (16.7%). Next were adaptability to the organization (13.3%) and a spirit of challenge and passion (10.0%). The results clearly show that companies prioritize attitude and practical competence over simple academic background or language test scores.

Responses regarding the ideal type of talent showed the same trend. Diligence, sincerity, and a sense of responsibility (23.3%), creative problem-solving ability (23.3%), and a spirit of challenge and passion (23.3%) were all cited at the same rate, while practical competence (20.0%) also held significant weight. Professional knowledge (6.7%) and global competence (3.3%) were relatively low. This demonstrates that companies are seeking individuals with a balanced combination of attitude, problem-solving ability, and practical skills, rather than focusing solely on specific technologies or knowledge.

The fields of study that companies require were also clearly identified. Twenty companies (66.7%) selected science, engineering, and information technology, followed by business, economics, and finance (16.7%), and convergence and emerging industries (10.0%). Humanities, languages, and international studies (3.3%), as well as law and social sciences (3.3%), were relatively less favored. The survey results directly reflect the reality of the industrial structure rapidly shifting toward a technology-centered focus.

Companies directly responded that universities are still focused on producing "spec-oriented" talent, emphasizing grades and certifications. They pointed out that simply imparting knowledge makes it difficult to nurture individuals with the creativity and social skills required in the industrial field.

A significant number of companies indicated that the expansion of remote classes since COVID-19 has weakened students' face-to-face interaction abilities. As a result, collaboration and communication skills that should be developed through team projects or field experience are not being adequately supported, making it difficult for graduates to adapt in the workplace.

One human resources manager said, "Creativity that enables new employees to foresee the future from a fresh perspective is required," adding, "Companies value creative thinking and a spirit of challenge for problem-solving more than just academic records." Another official emphasized, "Talented individuals who possess open-mindedness and social adaptability, as well as the character, leadership, and interpersonal skills necessary for organizational life, are welcomed in the field," and stressed that "universities need to create environments that foster these competencies."

In this survey, companies commonly demanded practical competence that goes beyond expertise. This includes not just acquiring knowledge in a field of study, but also creative abilities to solve problems, an attitude that produces results through collaboration and communication, and adaptability to function effectively in organizations and society. A company representative added, "It is important to move beyond simply conveying knowledge and ensure that academics and practical work are organically integrated."