How prepared are fresh graduates in entering the business world? There is evidence that organizations are currently experiencing mismatches between skills they expect upon their employees or also known as the “skills gap”. This gap makes it hard for both parties — candidates not being able to find jobs they fit in and employers finding it hard to spot skilled employees. It also gives them the idea that educational institutions failing to prioritize career readiness which includes the “soft skills” such as stress management, time management, and critical thinking to name a few, into their curriculum. These skills are believed to be essential to prepare students before they enter the corporate world.
In order to close this gap, employers believe that it’s the job of schools to prepare students through career readiness education. Obtaining knowledge such as academic and employability as well as technical skills and clear disposition are necessary for adapting and surviving today’s fast-paced workforce. These key competencies include:
1. Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
The ability to effectively come out with a quick well-thought-of solution to a problem by deeply evaluating loads of data, facts, and knowledge.
2. Oral and Written Communication
A talent in expressing ideas effectively in either written and oral forms. This is where public speaking and technical reports come to play and can be crucial to an organization if not handled well.
3. Teamwork
The eagerness to create collaborative relationships between colleagues and partners that may represent diverse nationalities, age, race, gender, religion, and point of view. Producing impactful outputs by embracing the differences of one another.
4. Tech-Savvy
In today’s highly competitive job market, chances of employment are higher when you are tech-savvy. Being well-versed and adaptive to modern technology is a plus as this is seen as someone who is able to accomplish tasks faster and create more effective solutions.
5. Professionalism and Work Ethic
Having developed good work habits (e.g., punctuality, time management) and personal accountability will result in people perceiving you as someone who is reliable and promotes the common good.
6. Leadership
The ability to guide a group of people to accomplish a certain goal through motivation and clear direction. Individuals who exhibit leadership qualities are empathetic and are more emotionally stable than others. They are able to delegate tasks and develop growth among team members.
7. Career Management
Working on one’s skills and experiences that align with a life-long career goal. Someone who’s not afraid to consistently explore opportunities and make smart choices that will help shape one’s personal growth.
