Universum, the global employer branding leader, surveyed over 50,000 university students across the United States in multiple fields of study. We asked this vast group of young talent to provide insights on their aspirations and expectations for a future career as well as who they perceive to be their ideal employers in 2021.
The full 2021 Ranking of the Most Attractive Employers in the United States will be presented on September 9.
Join us on September 9th to celebrate the best of employer branding in North America and to dive deeper in the main finding of Universum 2021 Talent Survey.
2021 Universum’s Talent Survey results show how the competition for talent has been growing steadily over the years.
This comprehensive research also showcases how young talent in the U.S. have changed their career preferences due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Remote Working
75% of respondents are interested in remote work opportunities. However, 56% are concerned about the possibility of isolation and missing out on social connection with coworkers.

2021 Industry Trends
A big year for Pharmaceutical/Biotechnology, Public Sector and Governmental Agencies across the board in Business, Engineering and Computer Science. The Video Game industry experienced a pick-up in Engineering and Computer Science.

Job Security and Purpose
The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic appears to have driven not only the increased importance of having a “secure employment” but also of finding an “inspiring purpose” in their careers.

Salary Expectations
Salary expectations of students in the U.S. continue to increase, although at a little slower rate compared to previous years. The annual average reached $67,742 USD in 2021
#1 Preference by region
West

High future earnings
Southwest

Secure Employment

Midwest

Secure employment
Northeast

High future arnings
Southeast

Secure employment
We are seeing a generation of young talent that is willing to trade high earnings for a secure employment. Not a surprise for a generation that enters the workforce in the midst of global economic uncertainty.”
