Analysis of the job preferences for undergraduate supply chain students

Abstract

The development of an effective recruitment strategy that attracts and secures entry-level logistics talent is essential to maintain corporate performance. To accomplish this, firms need to understand the attribute importance as well as the preferences of job applicants so that information can be used to develop more attractive job offers. To better understand job choice, choice based conjoint analysis was used. Key variables and their corresponding levels of interest in job choice were determined and presented to job seekers. Results of the current study indicate that for university undergraduate supply chain students, the three most important attributes used to evaluate entry level job positions are starting salary, fit with company culture and proximity of the worksite to friends and family. The results also show a preference for worksites located in the suburbs, in an office setting and for manufacturing firms. Below average preference was expressed for worksites in rural areas, those with lots of travel and firms in the retail and wholesale sectors. Implications for firms, educators and students are discussed.