As students near the end of their collegiate studies, they may know what professors look for in a research paper, but have no idea what employers expect to find on their resumes. Fortunately, the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) recently conducted its "Job Outlook 2013" survey to find out what companies would like to see on recent graduates' resumes.

Based on 244 completed surveys, employers are only willing to spend a few seconds scanning resumes before they decide whether it is worthy of the "interview" or "toss" pile. As a result, graduates need to craft resumes in which every word counts.

Additionally, today's employers are looking for specific qualities in job candidates, such as a strong work ethic, the ability to be a team player and initiative.

"Eight out of ten employers who review the resumes of potential college hires are seeking evidence of leadership skills," said Andrea Koncz, NACE’s employment information manager. "In addition, 75 percent of employers are looking for problem-solving skills."

If college graduates want to find a job that matches the specific skills they possess, they may want to take a career test.