Graduates are more concerned about career progression than financial incentives when looking for a job.

According to a survey by leadership development organisation Impact International, 87% of graduate jobseekers say career progression is the most important factor when applying for a job, compared with only 55% who rated salary and benefits and 45% who favoured training and development.

Given the current economic climate, 43% would feel insecure starting a new job and 38% think employers need to concentrate on employee communication as their main issue in light of the recession. Just under a third (30%) think employers should be engaging staff as a priority and going the extra mile to make employees feel valued.

The recession has also led graduates to want to stay longer with one employer. A third want to stay put for between two and four years, while 27% hope to remain in their job for five years or more.

David Williams, founder and CEO of Impact International, said: "Understandably graduates are feeling the pressure of the current economic climate. While over a third would feel positive and confident about starting a new job, it is clear bosses and businesses have a lot of work to do to reassure graduates."