Equipping Young People to Thrive in the Workplace.
Research by professional bodies reveal that millennials, especially young school leavers are hardly work ready after leaving school. Evidence shows they need more support to advance and to thrive in the place of work.
It is now apparent that professional development workshops and activities need to be encouraged in educational institutions. This will ensure young people begin early to receive work skills training that adequately prepares them to advance and thrive in the workplace professionally and mentally.
A graduate study at The University of Law UK, (The challenges young people face advancing into the workplace and how to alleviate some of these challenges), revealed that although most young people may have the educational training and technological know-how to make a positive impact at work, they are far less prepared to thrive mentally and professionally at the place of work.
A recent study by the Institute for Employment Studies (IES) – 2023, (Making young people a vital part of the work place), revealed that the needs of young people within the ages of 13-24, ‘were going unmet and increasing intergenerational inequalities were emerging. For this reason the transition to adulthood was already creating problems for many young people’.
key findings from the research are as follows: 21% of employers did not hire from ages 21-25. Two in five did not hire from 18 – 21 age group. 68% did not hire from 16 – 17 age group.
25% of employers have limited experience hiring disadvantaged young people. The study also revealed that employers feel young people are hindered by; Lack of work skills 42%, lack of experience 36% and lack of confidence 34%.
The studies also highlighted the fact that young people are among those most negatively affected by the recent pandemic, this stemmed from poor educational experiences which deepened their challenges to find and secure work. The result is that many are discouraged, uncertain about future prospects and anxious about their wellbeing.
It is now, more important than ever, to focus on supporting their transition and progression to the world of work. Support them to secure good quality work that will have a lasting positive impact on their future outcomes.
Failing to do this, may risk our future generation being scared with lifetime economic and social burdens which will cost us all dearly in the future.
There is therefore, an urgent need to ensure that our young people have the opportunity for sustainable healthy working lives. This objectives must be met by policymakers, employers, educational institutions and the wider community. Also, these new policies must address the challenges employers face as they struggle to access the labour they need to function most effectively.
Useful recommendations to alleviate these challenges;
Studies reveal that these challenges need to be addressed effectively as millennials and Gen Z cohorts seem poised to shift the trajectory in the workplace. This will be positive if they receive the right support and training development. Some recommendations include;
