Help School Leavers Know What Really Matters to Employers

The Qualities That Make the Difference

Employers don’t just need people who know things. They need people who can do the things- people they can trust to show up, adapt, and work well with others.

Here’s what really makes an impact:

• Reliability: if they can’t show up on time or be trusted to follow through, no employer will invest in them.

• Enthusiasm: a good attitude opens doors. Employers notice energy and motivation.

• Self-Motivation: those who take initiative get opportunities. Simple as that.

• Honesty: integrity matters in any job or career.

• Resilience: the ability to bounce back from setbacks is key to long-term success.

• Collaboration: no one works in isolation. Teamwork makes the dream work.

• Emotional Intelligence: understanding others makes people better colleagues, leaders, and problem- solvers.
  

🙂 Soft Skills: The Secret to Thriving in Any Workplace

Soft skills aren’t ‘fluffy extras’- they’re what turn knowledge into action.

They include:

• Communication: speaking, listening, writing- getting ideas across clearly.

• Problem-Solving: thinking for themselves instead of waiting for instructions.

• Planning & Organising: the ability to organise tasks and activities effectively.

• Time Management: handling tasks and deadlines without falling apart.

• Creativity & Adaptability: thinking differently, staying flexible, and making things work.

These skills aren’t developed by sitting in a classroom. They grow through doing- through part-time jobs, volunteering, team projects, hobbies, and navigating real-world problem-solving.

💻 Digital Literacy: A Must-Have, Not a Bonus

The modern workplace is digital. But knowing how to use TikTok isn’t the same as being digitally literate.

Young people need to:

• Digital devices & workplace tools: Drive, Teams, Canva, Trello, you name it.

• Manage their online presence: because their digital footprint follows them.

• Research, evaluate, and use information wisely especially in an AI-driven world.

Lack of digital literacy can hold them back- but it’s something they can build now, and we post opportunities to pre-skill in digital literacy, every day, on our social channels!

🤖 AI Literacy: The Game-Changer for the Future

AI isn’t some futuristic concept- it’s already shaping industries, workplaces, and decision-making. Young people who understand AI won’t be replaced by it- they’ll be the ones leading the way.

• Knowing how AI is used across industries: from marketing and healthcare to finance and education.

• Using AI tools effectively: understanding how to work with AI, not against it.

• Thinking critically about AI: recognising bias, ethical implications, and data privacy concerns.

AI is not just for tech experts it’s becoming a core skill in every career path. The sooner young people start developing AI literacy, the more confident and adaptable they’ll be.