What Tech Graduates Expect from Employers
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According to a recent study, many university graduates are eager to work with disruptive technologies, particularly quantum computing.
The management consultancy Sopra Steria analyzed the expectations of graduates from engineering, IT, and STEM fields across Europe and India. The study revealed that young IT professionals are highly interested in working with cutting-edge technologies such as quantum computing, cloud computing, and innovations that serve the greater good, like green IT. Additionally, measures to promote work-life balance remain a top priority.
From the graduates’ perspective, the most exciting technology areas are quantum computing (60%), green IT (54%), and cloud computing (53%). The three most important factors influencing job choice are remuneration (47%), career opportunities (36%), and work-life balance (36%).
Quantum Computing: The Most Exciting Technology
“The results of this study highlight the growing importance of disruptive technologies and social values among tech graduates,” says Isabel Feller, Head of Talent Management at Sopra Steria Germany. “We firmly believe that technological innovation must align with its contribution to the common good.”
From the consultancy’s perspective, the findings suggest that the appeal of a technology is closely tied to its position on market analysts’ hype curves, such as those from Gartner. New technologies often hold greater allure—at least during initial discussions—compared to those already in the industrialisation phase.
In addition to technological preferences, respondents have clear expectations for their future employers. The top three criteria are: Remuneration, which is the most important factor for 47% of graduates (rising to 52% in Germany).
Soft Factors
Work-life balance, cited by 36% of respondents (and 47% in Germany). Career opportunities, also emphasised by 36% of respondents both internationally and in Germany.
Once graduates enter the workforce, their priorities shift slightly. Work-life balance becomes the most important factor (53%), followed by career development programs (48%) and training opportunities (43%).
To achieve a good work-life balance, many respondents express a preference for flexible working arrangements. Globally, 85% of graduates want the option to work from home two or three days per week. In Germany, this figure rises to 89%. Workation—the opportunity to temporarily work abroad—also appeals to graduates, with 85% of international respondents and 84% of German respondents expressing interest. Moreover, many young tech professionals are attracted to freelance work, with 81% of global respondents and 89% of German graduates favoring this option.
Study Design
The study was conducted by market researcher Discurv on behalf of Sopra Steria. It surveyed 3,200 university graduates from the fields of engineering, IT, and innovative technologies, all with up to three years of professional experience. Respondents were based in Germany, Belgium, Spain, France, India, Italy, Luxembourg, Norway, the Netherlands, Poland, the United Kingdom, Sweden, and Switzerland.