Assessing the Influence of Graduate Characteristics on Employer Satisfaction: A Multi-dimensional Analysis

Abstract

Introduction: Developing countries around the world are facing a surplus of availability of labour compared to the demand in the markets. But the paradox is that the labour supply lacks the employable characteristics that are expected by organizations. Methods: Hence it becomes indispensable for employers to be able to hire the most employable graduates out of the available pool of candidates, especially in the context of soft skills like personality, emotional intelligence, and kinesics (non-verbal communication). Results: The present study has tried to assess the impact of emotional intelligence, personality traits, and kinesics on the satisfaction level of employers while hiring graduates. Model fit indices (CMIN/DF= 2.43 to 4.22, GFI= 0.90 to 0.95, NFI= 0.90 to 0.933, CFI= 0.920 to 0.951, RMSEA = 0.047 to 0.075) indicate a good model fit. It was established that personality traits had the strongest relationship with employer satisfaction, followed by emotional intelligence and kinesics. All three variables emerged as significant. Conclusion: The results from this have practical implications for employers and help them in making an informed choice while hiring prospective candidates.