Top 10 Skills Employers look for in young people

Courtesy of Apprenticeships in Scotland website

1. Positive work ethic

Making sure you come in every day with a positive outlook and aim to achieve the business goals. Ideally 15 minutes prior to starting time so you are ready to start work and always offer assistance when necessary.

2. Work experience

Make the best use out of school and college connections to gain work experience and use this on your CV to impress your future employer! 75% of employers say applicants from school and college lack real life work experience.

3. Problem Solving and Decision Making

Identifying what is not working, suggesting and trying out various solutions, weighing up the positives and negatives then making a choice.

4. Motivation and Initiative

Self-motivation and showing initiative in the work place when completing tasks, even if they do seem “boring” there is always a positive spin on any task!

5. Literacy/Numeracy skills

Basic literacy and numeracy skills are essential for employers. This ensures a high standard of execution for their business.

6. Interpersonal skills

Your ability to interact and deal with a range of different people in lots of different situations.

7. Great attainment

Turning up for work every day with an enthusiastic approach – unless very ill of course!

8. Communication

Sharing information and listening to other people.

Getting people to understand and use your ideas and suggested actions.

9. Teamwork

Working together with other people to achieve a common goal.

10. Self-management