What skills do employers want?
Several surveys have asked employers about the skills they are looking for in their employees. Here are some of the things they identified:
| Survey One | Survey Two |
Survey Three |
| Communication | Willingness to learn | Drive / energy - the desire to get things done |
| Working with others | Dependability / Reliability | Motivation - enthusiasm, a willingness to ask questions, keen to do that little bit extra on each job |
| Information handling | Self-motivation | Communication skills - the ability to expalin things clearly, through speech and in writing, in your own and, increasingly, another's language |
| Information technology | Team work | Determination - someone who will not back off when a problem or situation gets tough |
| Numeracy | Communication skills (oral) | Confidence - ability to relate to people at all levels, friendly, open and honest in their communications |
| Business awareness | Communication skills (written) | Reliability - follows up and doesn't rely on others to ensure that a job is done |
| IT Skills | Analytical ability - doesn't jump to the first solution that presents itself | |
| Numeracy skills | Honesty / Integrity - a willingness to take responsibility for your actions | |
| Drive / energy | Pride in a job well done - someone who is attentive to detail | |
| Self-management | Dedication - does whatever it takes in time and effort to ensure a successful result | |
| Desire to achieve / motivation | Listening skills - to understand and take account of alternative points of view | |
| Problem-solving ability | Commercial awareness - knows what makes money and saves money |
The surveys have used different words, but there are patterns in what employers are saying.