This study examined recruiting trends of business, industry, and government among new college graduates. Questionnaires were mailed to 4,890 employers, of which 489 returned complete responses. The survey found that new college graduates of 1996-97 can expect growth in job opportunities. An increase of 6.2 percent in job prospects and an increase of job security for new college graduates was anticipated. Shortages of new graduates are reported for the computer sciences and engineering, which also have the highest starting salaries and salary increases. Marketing and sales majors, actuaries, nurses, and transportation and logistics management majors are also sought. Career-related preprofessional experiences were favored by employers. Employers are looking for graduates with excellent communication skills and Web site, e-mail, and other technological experiences. All areas of the country reported good job prospects, with the Southeastern and Northcentral geographical regions reporting the most favorable employment opportunities for recent graduates. Women represented 41.1 percent of all new hires in 144 organizations reporting gender data, while racial and ethnic minorities represented 16.4 percent of new hires at 147 organizations reporting. Individuals with disabilities represented 2.1 percent of new hires as reported by 144 surveyed employers. A list of employers responding to the survey is included. (PRW)