The food and lodging sector will be seeking a large number of graduates this year. The agricultural sector appears to be the weakest area nationally. The only trouble spot was the Pacific Northwest. Employers who hire liberal arts graduates are expecting to hire substantially more this year. Employers hope to keep salary increases as close to the inflation rate as possible.
Some areas can expect more modest increases.
Employers realize that they may have to increase salaries above this level to attract the candidates they want. In this day and age it is both. You must be very qualified and then you must also develop a strong network of people who can be a support to you. These people need to know you well and be willing to act in your behalf. You are going to need this network when you seek people to write letters of recommend for you.