Expanding Hiring Horizons: U.S. Businesses Show Confidence in New Hires, Particularly Seeking Talented Entry-Level Personnel
U.S. Employers Emphasize the Importance of Personalized Learning in High School
A recent survey by J. Wallin Opinion Research revealed that U.S. employers strongly believe that personalized learning programs in high school, such as those supported by Lifelong Learning Administration Corporation (LLAC), are crucial in preparing skilled entry-level workers [1].
The survey, conducted from May 16 to June 2, 2025, involved 2,000 employers nationwide, with an oversample in California. The results showed that 94% of employers value professional skills and computing high school courses, and 76% find certifications valuable when entry-level applicants have them [2].
Moreover, 59% of employers require certifications/training for new employees, and 55% would be willing to pay between 10% and 20% more to entry-level candidates with industry certifications [3]. This indicates a significant emphasis on the importance of practical, marketable skills in the job market.
The survey also highlighted a growing concern among employers about the lack of essential skills in entry-level candidates. Among the top skills that are lacking are time management, work ethic/dependability, communication skills, positivity, and greater professionalism [10].
The demand for entry-level workers is expected to continue, with 87% of employers feeling that the demand will continue over the next 24 months [8]. This demand, coupled with the skills gap, has led to 43% of employers changing their hiring standards for entry-level candidates due to reduced skill levels [9].
Employers also expressed concerns about the one-size-fits-all traditional high school experience, with 59 percent feeling that it does not prepare students well for future career or vocational opportunities [6]. In response, 74 percent of companies find it very important for high schools to include flexible learning models tailored to students' career or vocational interests [7].
Business and finance, marketing/sales, and information technologies are among the areas that companies want personalized learning to include job skills training in high school [5]. This aligns with Lifelong Learning's mission to support schools offering flexible, student-centered education pathways that blend academic success with essential life skills [4].
Lifelong Learning Administration Corporation (LLAC) is a nonprofit that provides administrative and operational support to schools. It also offers services and support to schools that educate students through a personalized learning model [6][7]. Lifelong Learning is dedicated to empowering other nonprofits and educational organizations that work to enrich lives and communities [11].
For more information, contact Ann Abajian at [email protected] or (559) 903-7893 [12].
In conclusion, the survey findings underscore the need for personalized learning programs in high school to address the growing demand for skilled entry-level workers and to bridge current skills gaps. Such programs, supported by organizations like Lifelong Learning, provide students with practical, marketable skills and real-world experience before graduation, ensuring they are better prepared for the job market.
[1] J. Wallin Opinion Research Survey, 2025 [2] 76% of employers find certifications valuable when entry-level applicants have them. [3] 55% of employers would be willing to pay between 10% and 20% more to entry-level candidates with industry certifications. [4] Lifelong Learning's mission statement [5] Business and finance, marketing/sales, and information technologies are among the areas that companies want personalized learning to include job skills training in high school. [6] 59% of employers require certifications/training for new employees. [7] 74 percent of companies find it very important for high schools to include flexible learning models tailored to students' career or vocational interests. [8] 87% of employers feel the demand for entry-level workers will continue over the next 24 months. [9] 43% of employers have changed their hiring standards for entry-level candidates due to reduced skill levels. [10] Among the top skills that are lacking in entry-level candidates are time management, work ethic/dependability, communication skills, positivity, and greater professionalism. [11] Lifelong Learning's mission to empower other nonprofits and educational organizations. [12] Media contact for Lifelong Learning.
- The survey results showed that 94% of employers value professional skills and computing high school courses, indicating a strong emphasis on practical, marketable skills in the job market.
- Business and finance, marketing/sales, and information technologies are among the areas that companies want personalized learning to include job skills training in high school, aligning with Lifelong Learning's mission.
- The demand for entry-level workers is expected to continue, with 87% of employers feeling that the demand will continue over the next 24 months, making it crucial for high schools to provide personalized learning programs.
- Among the top skills that are lacking in entry-level candidates are time management, work ethic/dependability, communication skills, positivity, and greater professionalism, underscoring the importance of personalized learning in high school.
