59 CHAPTER 4 DATA ANALYSIS 4.1 Implementation of Research The researcher conducted a survey using Google Forms to gather data from recent graduates (2021-2024) of Indonesia's top five public universities: ITB, UI, UGM, UNPAD, and ITS. To reach these graduates, they got help from parents, friends, lecturers, and used social media. Before the main survey, they did a pilot test with ten respondents to make sure the questions were clear and easy to understand. Based on the feedback, they improved the questionnaire. After that, they conducted detailed interviews with Antonia Clara Alverina, a 2021 Business Administration graduate from FISIP UI and Human Capital International Station Assistant Head at Malaysia Airlines. These interviews provided deeper qualitative insights to better understand the survey data. Finally, the main survey was sent to 100 qualified respondents, and the collected data was analyzed using statistical methods to explore the relationship between soft skills development and perceived work readiness among recent graduates. 4.2 Respondent Profile Based on the survey result, all 100 participants met the criteria: recent graduates (2021-2024) from various public universities in Indonesia (ITB, UI, UGM, UNPAD, and ITS). They all secured full-time employment upon graduation and understand the importance of soft skills for job readiness. 4.2.1 Respondent Demographic Profile • University and Graduation Year Table 4.1 Respondent Demographic – University & Graduation Year The table shows the demographic profile of respondents by their university and graduation year (2021-2024). Most respondents are from ITB, with 49 total, and the highest number of graduates (35) in 2024. Other universities include ITS (8 respondents), UGM (4 respondents), UI (22 respondents), and UNPAD (17 respondents). The year 2024 has the most graduates, with 44 respondents. CHAPTER IV DATA ANALYSIS 60 This distribution is relevant because the graduation year can significantly influence the development and perception of soft skills towards work readiness. For instance, graduates from more recent years, such as 2024, might have had more exposure to updated curricula and contemporary teaching methods that emphasize soft skills development. In contrast, graduates from earlier years may have experienced different educational focuses or less emphasis on soft skills, which could impact their perceived work readiness. By examining respondents from various graduation years, the study can assess how changes in educational approaches over time correlate with graduates' preparedness for the workforce. This insight helps to understand the effectiveness of recent educational reforms and the ongoing importance of adapting curricula to meet evolving job market demands. • University and Field of Study Table 4.2 Respondent Demographic – University & Field of Study The table shows the demographic profile of respondents by university and field of study. ITB has the most respondents (49), mainly in "Sains dan Teknologi" (15) and "Teknik Industri" (13). "Sains dan Teknologi" is the most popular field overall (31 respondents). UI has 22 respondents, mostly in "Ekonomi dan Bisnis" (10). Other universities: ITS has 8 respondents, mainly in "Sains dan Teknologi" (5). UGM and UNPAD have 4 and 17 respondents, respectively. Overall, ITB and UI are the most represented, focusing on science, technology, and business. This data shows the respondents' academic interests and university affiliations. The connection between university and field of study and soft skills towards perceived work readiness is crucial. Different universities may offer varying levels of emphasis on soft skills development based on their academic programs and resources. For example, ITB’s strong 61 representation in technical fields like "Sains dan Teknologi" and "Teknik Industri" suggests a focus on problem-solving and analytical skills. Conversely, UI’s emphasis on "Ekonomi dan Bisnis" highlights the importance of communication, leadership, and teamwork skills in business contexts. • University and Time to First Employment Table 4.3 Respondent Demographic – University & Time to First Employment The table shows the time graduates from different universities took to find their first full-time job. Most ITB graduates (61%) and UNPAD graduates (59%) found jobs within six months. In contrast, most ITS graduates (63%) took more than six months. UI graduates found jobs the quickest, with 86% employed within six months, while UGM graduates were evenly split. Overall, 64% of respondents found jobs within six months, indicating that most graduates transition quickly into employment. The slower employment rate for ITS graduates suggests challenges that could be due to university reputation, industry connections, or job market conditions. According to the survey of 100 graduates from top Indonesian universities, there is a strong connection between soft skills and getting jobs. Graduates who excel in communication, teamwork, problem-solving, time management, and adaptability tend to find jobs faster. For instance, most ITB graduates quickly secured jobs, especially in State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN) and creative industries. UI graduates had high employment rates and better starting salaries across various job types. This demonstrates that extracurricular activities, particularly internships, play a crucial role in job preparation, highlighting the value of practical experience along with academic learning. Considering these insights, it’s evident that soft skills significantly reduce the waiting time for employment and enhance perceived work readiness. For more details, see Appendix B. The data will be analyzed to answer the research questions. 62 • University and Type of First Full-Time Job Table 4.4 Respondent Demographic – University & Type of First Full-Time Job The table shows most ITB graduates started in State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN) (15 out of 49), followed by the Creative Industry (6), and Multinational Companies (3). ITS had 2 out of 8 graduates in BUMN. UGM had a few respondents in various sectors, including BUMN and Multinational Companies. UI graduates were more spread out, with 10 out of 22 in BUMN, and others in Consulting (3) and Multinational Companies (1). UNPAD had 3 out of 17 in BUMN, with others in Multinational Companies (2) and Finance/Banking (1). Overall, 24 graduates started in BUMN, showing a preference or opportunities in the public sector.