The disparity between the skills required for entry-level positions and the skills possessed by young job seekers is more pronounced than ever. The gap between what employers need and what young people bring to the table is a cause for concern, as highlighted by numerous studies and industry reports. Statistics paint a worrying picture: unemployment rates among young people are rising again, reaching 12.6% this year, 2.5 times higher than other age groups. The urgency for educational reform and restructuring is apparent: we need immediate action to avoid leaving a significant portion of our youth ill-equipped for the demands of the modern workplace.
The employment landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, with employers increasingly seeking candidates with a blend of technical expertise and soft skills. Urgent action is needed to equip students with the skills they need to succeed in the workforce. Employability skills, often termed ''soft/core competency skills" or ''transferable skills'', include communication, teamwork, problem-solving, leadership, adaptability, and emotional intelligence. These skills empower individuals to perform effectively when employed and are highly valued by employers across various industries.
To be deemed ''employable,'' young people need more than just technical skills; they also require a robust set of behaviors and attitudes. Flexibility, communication, teamwork, problem-solving, leadership, emotional intelligence, adaptability, proactivity, positivity, and motivation are essential for thriving in today's workplaces.
Lacking these fundamental qualities, young individuals may find it challenging to integrate effectively into a company's culture. This can lead to disengagement, premature departures, or even contract terminations, particularly in apprenticeships. These soft skills are critical not just for securing a position but for succeeding and advancing within any professional setting.
Enhanced Adaptability to Changing Job Markets
The job market is continuously evolving with technological advancements and economic shifts. Early employability skills development enables individuals to adapt to these changes more effectively. Skills like adaptability and problem-solving help individuals navigate new environments and challenges, making transitioning into different roles or industries easier as opportunities and demands arise.
Foundation for Lifelong Learning
Starting early in developing employability skills lays a foundation for lifelong learning. These skills apply to initial employment and are crucial as one progresses through different career stages. Learning and adapting continuously is a fundamental aspect of employability in an era where career paths are no longer linear but increasingly diverse and dynamic.
Increased Marketability
Employability skills increase an individual's marketability to potential employers. Candidates can distinguish themselves from others in a crowded job market by demonstrating solid interpersonal, critical thinking, and leadership skills. These skills are often highlighted in job listings and are integral to what makes a candidate appealing during interviews and in the workplace.
Improved Job Performance
Research consistently shows that employability skills contribute to improved job performance. For example, effective communication and teamwork lead to better collaboration among team members, resulting in higher productivity and success in project execution. Similarly, emotional intelligence can improve management practices and lead to healthier workplace relationships.
Career Flexibility and Mobility
With strong employable skills, individuals are open to multiple career paths. For instance, leadership and management skills can open doors to supervisory roles and other upward movements in a career, regardless of the industry. Similarly, strong communication skills are valuable in client-facing roles, education, and many fields, providing broader career options and flexibility.
Economic Stability
On a broader scale, a workforce with robust employability skills contributes to economic stability. Companies with skilled employees are more resilient, able to innovate and adapt to market changes and new technologies. This strengthens individual companies and supports national economic health and growth.
The importance of developing employability skills early cannot be overstated. As educational institutions and policymakers recognize this need, more initiatives are being developed to incorporate employability skills into early education curricula. However, it's also crucial for individuals to take personal responsibility for enhancing these skills through continuous learning and application. Whether through formal education, work experience, or personal development, investing in employability skills is investing in a future of broader opportunities and success.
Join us in the next publication as we discuss some of the different strategies parents, institutions, and schools can implement to invest in employability skills for students and entry-level professionals.
I had the pleasure of working with Career Bridge when I was facing career stagnation with no future direction. The career coach truly transformed my journey through her coaching and expertise which were instrumental in helping me define my goals and navigate the complexities of the job market. Thanks to the support, I not only secured a fulfilling job but also developed valuable skills and confidence. I highly recommend the services to anyone seeking to enhance their career prospects.
After the career coaching, there was an immediate change as my motivation and mindset transformed. Within 6 months, I was shortlisted for two jobs, did interviews and was offered both jobs. I had the opportunity to choose the job that aligned to my dream. Before enrolling for coaching, I was lost and desperately looking for help to improve my motivation at work as well as find a new and challenging job opportunity. I was stuck in the same job for over 10 years. Potential employers were not responding to my job applications.I enrolled for the Career Development Coaching programme for working professionals that helped me identify obstacles to my career progression, rebuilt my self confidence and got a better understanding on how to take charge and manage my career. Through career bridge, I was also supported with writing a professional CV and cover letter and Coached on Interviewing Skills.
After receiving coaching, my mindset and attitude towards work changed completely. I have not taken a back seat in advancing my career since then. I feel motivated and empowered. The impact was almost immediate. I was stagnated in a junior role for over 13 years. Through career coaching, cv writing and interviewing coaching, I was able to get a new job at a leadership level with a reputable diplomatic organization.
I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support and guidance I received from the Careers Bridge team. Their commitment to excellence, combined with a genuine interest in the success of their participants, sets them apart. Within a year of completing the training, I witnessed an impressive ascent through the ranks in my organization. The practical insights gained from the program empowered me to navigate challenging interviews with ease, resulting in not one but two successful job offers. These achievements are a testament to the effectiveness of the training provided by Careers Bridge. I wholeheartedly recommend Career Bridge-Career Training to anyone seeking a strategic boost in their career.
I enrolled for Competency Based Interview Coaching to help me compete for a more Senior/professional position. The career coach helped me to take a broad analysis of my experience, skills and capabilities that would position me as the best candidate for the position. I also learned how to respond to questions, communicate effectively and confidently.Both my oral and non-verbal interviewing skills were sharpened. The coaching ended with 2 Mock Interviews that boosted my confident and at the end I was the successful candidate selected to this position after working in an Associate position for over 6 years.
The graduate career programme by Career Bridge helped me to effectively transition from university to employment. It helped me to define my career goals in a realistic way. I was also able to learn about the 21st century job market and the skills that will enable me to succeed and grow faster in my career. Since then, I have made proactive changes in my career. Always learning faster, taking up new challenges and proposing ideas at work, building strong professional relationships and looking out for growth opportunities.
We are accredited by:
Contact us for any enquiries and signup for our services newsletters
+254 792 876 469
info@careerbridge.coach
