If you are graduating in 2025 and stepping into the job market, chances are you are not just chasing a paycheck. Sure, salary still matters, but it’s no longer the only thing on your radar. You are looking for something more: flexibility, growth, perks, and maybe even a little peace of mind.
And you are not alone.
According to the Graduate Outlook Survey 2025 by the CFA Institute, 58% of graduates still rank salary as a top consideration when evaluating employers. But that’s down from 62% in 2024. That small dip speaks volumes; it shows that while money is important, it’s not everything.
So what else are you looking for? Let’s break it down.
What Has Changed Since 2024?
If you compare this year’s preferences to last year’s, you will notice a shift in priorities. You are thinking long-term. You want a job that fits your life, not just your bank account.
Here’s what’s rising:
- Career progression: Up from 42% to 48%
- Benefits: Also up from 42% to 48%
- Working arrangements: Slight bump from 47% to 49%
- Working location: Up from 28% to 33%
- Perks: Jumped from 24% to 31%
These numbers show that you are not just looking for a job, you are looking for a lifestyle. You want to grow, stay healthy, and maybe work from your couch once in a while. Totally fair.
What You Still Care About (But Not More Than Before)?
Some things haven’t changed much:
- Opportunity to work or travel abroad: Still at 30%
- Diverse workplace: Holding steady at 23%
These are nice-to-haves, but they are not deal-breakers. You appreciate diversity and global exposure, but you are not basing your entire decision on them. It is good that you are more focused on what affects your day-to-day life.
You are Intentional, and That’s Powerful
Only 2% of graduates said they don’t actively look for anything in an employer. That means 98% of you are entering the workforce with a checklist. You know what you want, and you are not afraid to ask for it.
You are thinking about:
- How will you grow in the role?
- Whether the company supports your mental health?
- If the work schedule lets you have a life?
- Whether the benefits actually benefit you?
This isn’t entitlement but it’s clarity. You are making smart, values-driven choices. Employers should be paying attention.
So What Should Employers Offer You in 2025?
If you are an employer reading this, here’s your cheat sheet. Graduates in 2025 want more than just a salary. To attract top talent, you will need to offer a full package.
- Competitive Pay: Yes, salary still matters. It’s the baseline. But it’s not enough on its own.
- Clear Career Growth: You want to know where you are headed. If there’s no path forward, you will look elsewhere.
- Flexible Work Options: Remote, hybrid, flexible hours- these aren’t perks anymore. They are expectations.
- Strong Benefits: Health insurance, mental health support, paid leave, and maybe even fertility or pet benefits. You are looking for security and care.
- Real Perks: Free snacks are cool, but how about a four-day workweek or wellness stipends? You want perks that actually improve your life.
- A Healthy Culture: You are done with toxic workplaces. You want transparency, empathy, and a team that respects you.
You are Not Just Accepting Offers; You are Choosing Employers
This is a big shift. You are not just grateful to get a job; you are evaluating whether the job deserves you. You are asking:
- Does this company align with my values?
- Will I be supported here?
- Can I grow without burning out?
And if the answer is no, you are moving on. That’s not arrogance, it’s self-respect.
The Gen Z Work Philosophy: Balance, Growth, and Vibes
You are part of a generation that’s seen hustle culture, layoffs, and burnout. You have watched people sacrifice their well-being for jobs that didn’t care. So now, you are choosing differently.
What Do You Want?
- Work-life harmony (not just balance)
- Purpose-driven roles
- Bosses who mentor, not micromanage
- Workplaces that feel safe and inclusive
You are not afraid to say no to outdated systems. You are building a career that fits your life, not the other way around.
Do You Want More Than Money? That’s Okay
If you are graduating in 2025, you are entering the workforce with clarity, confidence, and a whole lot of intention. You still care about salary, but you care just as much about growth, flexibility, and feeling valued.
Employers who get it, who offer real support, clear paths, and a healthy culture, will win your attention. Those who don’t? Well, they’ll be left wondering why their job posts aren’t getting clicks.
So go ahead, ask for what you need. You are not being picky. You are being smart.
And honestly? That’s iconic.
