The class of 2024 faces a tough challenge in the job market as US employers express growing apprehension about hiring them, according to a recent survey shared by CNBC. 

In detail, the survey revealed that among 1,268 business leaders across the US, 64% of employers have voiced concerns regarding hiring graduates over the past five years. 

Notably, nearly a third of employers are reluctant to hire recent graduates who have participated in pro-Palestinian protests within the last six months, with an additional 22% expressing hesitance toward those who have attended such demonstrations.

These protests have escalated across US college campuses since the onset of the Israel-Hamas conflict. 

With casualties surpassing 1,200 in Israel and over 35,000 in Gaza, tensions have escalated, prompting students from institutions like Columbia University to engage in demonstrations, as reported by VCPost.

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Why US Employers Will Not Protesters

Of those 1,268 business leaders, almost two-thirds cite potential aggressive behavior in the workplace as a primary concern. While over half expressed discomfort due to perceived excessive political engagement, fearing it could create an uncomfortable environment for other employees. 

Some employers viewed protesters as liabilities, dangerous, or lacking adequate education, while others cited differing political beliefs as a deterrent.

Chief Education and Career Development Advisor at Intelligent.com, Huys Nguyen, cautioned against hiring based on political affiliations. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing candidates' skills, experience, and qualifications over personal beliefs to avoid perpetuating biases in the workplace.

Interestingly, the survey also revealed a divergence in opinion among business leaders, with 21% expressing interest in hiring graduates involved in protests, appreciating their outspokenness and alignment with their values.

However, the majority of leaders remained neutral on the subject.

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