If you’ve ever conducted an internet search with the words “do grades really matter to employers” while job hunting, you likely emerged more confused than when you started. Some results insist good grades are essential to getting a great job; some say they’re irrelevant.
So here’s the definite answer to the question, “ do grades really matter to a recruiter?” Yes. And no.
While grades don’t tell the whole story about a candidate, they’re definitely a chapter worth skimming. In the end, though, the total package means more than the numbers. The ideal candidate has it all — real-world experience through internships, impressive grades from a respected school, leadership and teamwork abilities, good communications skills and more.
Presenting the Total Package
So how do you decide which qualities and achievements to display? According to the Job Outlook 2015 survey from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), employers seek several attributes on a prospect’s resume.
When asked what they look for in a candidate, the largest group of respondents (77.8 percent) chose both “leadership” and “the ability to work in a team structure.” Other prized attributes were communication and teamwork skills, a strong work ethic, initiative and flexibility.
However, internships are also widely identified as the most important factor in evaluating a candidate. Showing you’ve done real-world work in a real-world setting is invaluable. The next priorities were employment during college, college major, volunteer experience and extracurricular activities. GPA was seventh on the list.
Grades Reflect Effort and Knowledge
The larger the company, the more likely you’ll be asked to share your GPA during the submission process. Another recent NACE survey shows that 67 percent of companies screen by GPA. A strong GPA signals responsibility, commitment, time management and intelligence to many employers.
Engineering and architecture programs are academically intensive, and prospects need technical ability to succeed in this environment. Good grades increase the chance a candidate has a strong foundation of knowledge, as well as a high level of effort and attention to detail.
What to Put on Your Resume
True, we haven’t technically answered the question of whether grades matter. That’s because there is no conclusive answer. Every recruiter sees things differently, and every job demands its own set of priorities. However, some attributes are universally valued, so be sure to emphasize a few key things that could position you well with any company:
- Grades: No matter your GPA, it’s a good idea to include it. You’ll be asked about it at one point in every interview process, so be up front with it. Make sure to list any academic honors you’ve achieved, as well.
- Work experience: Ideally, this is an internship in the field you’re interested in, but any experience can demonstrate skills you’ve acquired, an ability to multitask or experience working well within a team.
- Leadership roles: We value people that can take initiative and demonstrate a strong sense of ownership and responsibility.
- Extracurricular activities: We’re always looking for well-rounded team members who have varied interests outside the classroom. Show us what you’re passionate about.
- Problem-solving ability: The more specific the better. If, during an internship, you improved productivity on a project by 25 percent, we want to know how. This is the kind of instance that can help offset a less-than-stellar GPA.
- Fit within the company culture: Many employers have a defined culture, and they want to hire someone who would be a great personality fit, too. Who doesn’t want someone who will gel with the team and its values? Our culture, for example, centers on employee-ownership and an entrepreneurial approach. If you think you’d fit in, show us how!
What do you think — are grades or other attributes more important for job seekers? Comment below or join the conversation on our Careers Facebook page.
Jenna Blair is a college recruiter for Burns & McDonnell. She recruits for entry-level positions throughout the company and develops relationships with university administrators throughout the country. Feel free to connect with Jenna on LinkedIn to learn more about the many opportunities available at Burns & McDonnell.
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