Italy's Most Attractive Employers 2024 | Universum

Universum Talent Research Reveals Top Trends Shaping Student Preferences in the Job Market in the United States 

Milan, Italy – July 3, 2024 – Universum, the global leader in employer branding and talent insights, has released its 2024 Student Research Rankings for Italy, shedding light on the evolving preferences of Italian students. The comprehensive study, ran between October 2023 and April 2024, featuring responses from over 15,000 students, highlights key trends that are shaping the future of the workforce, with a particular focus on the attributes that students value most in potential employers. This year's findings underscore the importance of challenging work, competitive compensation, professional development, and work-life balance.

Challenging Work and Professional Development

One of the most significant trends identified in the 2024 rankings is the continued importance of challenging work. Students across various fields, including humanities, social sciences, and STEM, consistently rank challenging work as their top priority. This preference reflects a growing desire for roles that offer intellectual stimulation and opportunities for personal growth.

"Students today are looking for more than just a job; they want a career that challenges them and allows them to develop professionally," said Manuela Marinosci, Senior Employer Branding Advisor at Universum. "Employers who can offer such opportunities will have a distinct advantage in attracting top talent."

Competitive Compensation and High Future Earnings

In an era marked by economic uncertainty, competitive compensation and high future earnings have become increasingly important to students. The study reveals that salary expectations are on the rise, particularly among Gen Z, who prioritize financial stability and long-term earning potential.

"Competitive base salary and high future earnings are critical factors for students when making career choices," noted  Manuel Brandini, Country Manager Italy at Universum. "Companies that can meet these expectations will be better positioned to attract and retain the best talent."

Work-Life Balance and Flexible Working Conditions

The importance of work-life balance and flexible working conditions has also been highlighted in the 2024 rankings. Italian students are increasingly valuing employers who offer flexibility and support for their well-being. This trend is particularly pronounced among women, who prioritize gender pay equality, secure employment, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.

"Work-life balance and flexible working conditions are no longer just nice-to-have attributes; they are essential for attracting a diverse and inclusive workforce," emphasized Manuela Marinosci Senior Employer Branding Advisor at Universum. "Employers who can provide these conditions will not only attract top talent but also enhance overall employee satisfaction and productivity."

Gender Differences in Preferences

The study also highlights notable gender differences in preferred attributes. Women tend to prioritize ethical standards, secure employment, and inspiring purpose, while men value high performance focus, prestige, and innovation. Both genders, however, place significant importance on challenging work, professional training and development, and a friendly work environment.

Shifting Preferences During Economic Downturns

The 2024 rankings reveal that student preferences are shifting in response to economic downturns. Factors such as high future earnings, competitive base salary, benefits, work-life balance, and opportunities for personal impact have become more critical in attracting students to certain companies. This shift underscores the need for employers to adapt their strategies to meet the evolving expectations of the workforce.

Employer Brand & Talent Insights

Understanding the reasons behind talent rankings is crucial for employers looking to improve their brand positioning. Universum offers unique insights into employer brand positioning based on the results of their talent surveys. By leveraging data-driven insights, companies can make informed decisions to enhance their employer brand and attract top talent.

"Data-driven insights are essential for understanding what students value most in potential employers," said Manuel Brandini, Country Manager for Italy at Universum. "By incorporating these insights into their employer brand strategy, companies can better align their offerings with the preferences of the workforce."

The 2024 Student Research Rankings by Universum provide valuable insights into the evolving preferences of students in Italy. Employers who can offer challenging work, competitive compensation, professional development, and work-life balance will be well-positioned to attract and retain top talent. As the workforce continues to evolve, understanding and adapting to these trends will be crucial for companies looking to stay competitive in the market.

About Universum Talent Research: 

Universum Talent Research is a leading provider of insights and data analysis in the talent acquisition space, offering comprehensive research products and strategic solutions to empower organizations in attracting and retaining top talent. 

The Universum 2024 Talent Insights report serves as a critical tool for employers in the United States, offering detailed analyses and trend forecasts that help navigate the complexities of the job market.  

For more information about the Universum 2024 Talent Insights report and to see a full list of top ranked employers in the United States, please visit our rankings page.