Evaluating Graduate Development : Key Findings from the Graduate Development Project

The Graduate Development Project involved a close examination of graduate development in eight UK‐based companies over a three‐year period. Questionnaire data were obtained from a total of 1,189 graduates in the first few years of their careers, and 677 of their managers. The latter stages of the project involved company‐specific development work of various kinds. Key findings are reported concerning graduates′ experiences, attitudes and self‐rated competences. These are compared and contrasted with their managers′ views. Differences between companies, and between graduates at different stages of early career, are examined. The graduate experiences which most powerfully influence outcomes such as organizational commitment are identified. The impact of the project on the management of graduate development is discussed.