Introduction
In today’s rapidly evolving economic landscape, being employable is not just an advantage but an absolute necessity, especially for youth and young adults. I am having these discussions currently with high school young men in my community. Regardless of your category or group, it would be best if you were employable. A high school teacher told me, “We would like our students to graduate and go to college or trade school, but what’s more important, are they employable? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (Oct 2021), Approximately 61.8% of high school graduates enrolled in college.
Employees are looking for those students who can easily transition from a school to a working environment. For today’s students to successfully make this transition, they must have a mastery of soft skills. According to Roxanne Carter in her April 6, 2023, Harvard Business Review article, “What College Students Need to Succeed in Corporate America,” she highlighted since the start of 2023, 53% of recent college graduates are unemployable or underemployed – What College Students Need to Succeed in the Corporate World (hbr.org).
With technological advancements, shifting industries, and changing job markets, the concept of job security has evolved. To thrive in this dynamic environment, young individuals must prioritize employability. This blog explores why being job-ready is essential for youth in today’s economy and the key factors contributing to employability.
Importance of employability for today’s youth and young adults
Adapting to Economic Uncertainty
The global economy has witnessed unprecedented uncertainty in recent years, with events like economic recessions, the COVID-19 pandemic, and political upheavals. Young individuals entering the workforce must be adaptable to these uncertainties. Employability equips them with the resilience to withstand economic shocks and pivot when necessary.
Meeting Employer Expectations
Employers in the contemporary job market expect more than qualifications and experience, regardless of economic uncertainty. They seek candidates with diverse skills, including soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Employers demand that young individuals hone these skills, as they are often as crucial as technical competencies in securing and retaining employment.
Embracing Lifelong Learning
The days of completing education and entering a stable, lifelong career are becoming increasingly rare. Today, it’s essential for young people to embrace the concept of lifelong learning. Employability requires continuously upgrading one’s skills and knowledge to remain relevant in an ever-changing job landscape. Embracing lifelong learning might involve pursuing further education, attending workshops, or keeping up with industry trends and news.
Skills and strategies to develop while sharpening employability
Building a Professional Network
Networking is an essential aspect of employability. Connecting with field professionals can open opportunities, provide mentorship, and offer valuable insights. Youth and young adults should seek networking by meeting and building relationships with teachers and professors. When you apply for jobs, teachers and professors can serve as character references and may be willing to connect you with professionals in their field. I know this is easier said than done, but take the risk. You might discover they have been waiting for you to ask them.
Developing Soft Skills
While technical skills are necessary, soft skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability are equally crucial. Employability hinges on working well with others, adapting to diverse environments, and communicating effectively. The successful implementation of soft skills at workplaces ensures higher productivity and efficiency. Other reasons why soft skills are essential for youth and young adults include career progression and promotion, improving workplace productivity, building professional relationships, and being in optimum demand by recruiters.
Financial Independence
Being employable is not just about getting a job; it’s also about financial management, budgeting, independence, and security. Young individuals need a stable source of income to support themselves and plan for their futures. A strong employability profile increases the likelihood of finding and retaining a job that provides financial stability, allowing individuals to save, invest, and plan for their long-term goals, whether paying off student loans, saving for a home, or investing for the future.
Conclusion
In today’s ever-changing economic landscape, being employable is not an option; it’s vital for youth and young adults. Adapting to economic uncertainty, navigating technological advancements, and thriving in a competitive job market all hinge on employability. Landing a job after graduation takes more than keeping your resume current. By continuously developing soft skills, networking, and embracing lifelong learning, young individuals can position themselves for success in today’s economy. Being job-ready – Employable is the key that unlocks doors to fulfilling careers and financial independence, ultimately enabling them to pursue their passions and purpose.
Is your youth/young adult employable? When was the last time you checked or had a discussion?
As I learn from other educators, I will continue providing my thoughts on this topic and others like it. I hope to see you again soon.