The score represents the mean value over all respondents. It is interesting to note that many companies rely upon traditional methods for recruiting employees. These numbers are confirmed in other national surveys. Word of mouth, referrals, and a little shoe leather are still important in getting a job. In addition, private employment agencies, public employment agencies, and contacting high schools were among the lowest valued sources of qualified applicants.
Some interesting implications emerge.
First, academic performance, course work, etc. are relatively less important in making hiring decisions compared to factors related to work comportment and prior work experience. Moreover, industry-based credentials are relatively important compared to measures of academic or school achievement. In addition, it is interesting to note that school reputation matters little. A vast majority of companies provide tuition reimbursement to their employees although front-line employees are less likely to be covered by tuition reimbursement for approved courses. A similar pattern holds when companies were asked about whether the company provided time off from work to take an approved course.