Factors Influencing Employers' Decision in Hiring Newly BSBA Graduates for Management Trainee, Supervisory or Managerial Positions

Abstract

There are more Filipinos who have jobs now than ever before, that could have been a source of happiness for many people, except that a closer look at the data shows that the available jobs are limited and are of low quality. While educational institutions aim to equip students with the requisite theoretical knowledge and practical skills, study shows that there exists a gap between academe and industry requirements. This study aimed to identify the key factors influencing employers’ decision in hiring newly graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration program for management trainee, supervisory or managerial positions, more specifically, to assess the factors considered by employers relative to the newly BSBA graduates’ physical appearance, academic background, technical skills and professional competencies, leadership qualities and experiences, internship and other work experiences, professional certifications or accreditation, soft-skill competencies, and industry-specific knowledge and expertise. This study used quantitative and descriptive research design and a self-made survey questionnaire to answer the queries and objectives. In determining the sample size, this study utilized stratified-random sampling. Among 188 qualified businesses in Alaminos City, 65 were included in this study. Frequency distribution, percentage, weighted mean, and Pearson’s Chi-Square Test were also used in statistical analysis. The study found out that supervisory or managerial positions that are available for newly BSBA graduates are Operations Manager, General Manager, and Supervisor. Physical Appearance, Soft-Skill Competencies, and Industry-Specific Knowledge and Expertise were the highest-ranked key factors that can influence employers’ decision in hiring newly BSBA graduates for management trainee, supervisory or managerial positions. While the least scored factor was Academic Background. There was no significant relationship between key factors influencing employers’ decision in hiring newly BSBA graduates for management trainee, supervisory or managerial positions and the business profile. This study recommends that students must give focus on their physical appearance particularly in dressing appropriately, maintaining professional grooming, and the importance of confidence at all times, also the integration of soft-skill training, such as communication, leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork into the curriculum of BSBA programs, and the acquirement of in-depth knowledge and understanding of the industry to help students and newly BSBA graduates build a strong profile critical for supervisory or managerial positions.