Most employers will be surprised at the level of interest that the new group of college graduates is showing in their entire compensation packages, including interest in health and 401(k) plans. Today’s graduates, faced with mounting debt and worried about the potential collapse of the Social Security system are looking to potential employers for stability and security.

Base salaries continue to be the most important factor graduates weigh when they are making a decision about a job offer. However, considerations like medical coverage and 401(k) plans are ranking second and third place, respectively, in importance, ahead of vacation days, paid holidays, and guaranteed annual bonuses. Almost 40% of undergraduates responding to a survey by Universum Communications also said that family health insurance would be a make or break factor in evaluating a job offer, even though most responding did not have dependents. One-third of undergraduates also said that having a retirement plan is also an important decision factor.

This generation is influenced by the insecurity brought about by September 11th and its aftermath as well as by the guidance of their parents, who are aware of the effect that quality health insurance and retirement plans can have on quality of life.

Companies who are interested in attracting young adults need to realize that this group is business-savvy. Many will need to revise their recruitment plans to fit the needs and demands of this generation.