While it is imperative to have a sound technical fit to the job you are applying for, it is the suite of complementary skills which employers are looking for that sets you apart from other contenders.
From the Limelight Survey, participants clearly appreciated the value of fine tuning softer skills, such as communication and planning as playing a pivotal role in their employability. 51% of millennials said that a mix of 60% technical skills and 40% softer skills was seen as the most important in their first role, while Limelighters felt four of the top five skills most significant to obtain graduate employment, lay outside their technical expertise.
Graduates know what attributes they need to be more employable – the results are clear. In fact, 69% of Attributes Quiz Survey responses showed that graduates like working in teams, especially at University – a thumbs up for educators who are nurturing co-creation and collaboration.
How do you feel about working with others? In order of importance:
- I relish working in a team: 69%
- I do my best work by myself, then share it with others: 31%
“Emerging professionals look for inspiration and for environments where they are valued, understood, and allowed to meaningfully contribute,” she said.
What do you think the most important trait is in a leader? In order of importance:
- Able to inspire people, and uncover their strengths: 55%
- Able to manage others, and communicate strategy: 28%
- Willing to take responsibility in tough times: 13%
- Able to steer the business and respond to competitors: 5%
“Feeling like your workplace enables you to express ideas, lead change and leave a legacy is a key driver for emerging professionals in the early stages of their career,” she added.
What’s most important to you in a workplace? In order of importance:
- Enough responsibility to feel you’re having an impact: 33%
- Freedom to challenge the status quo and pursue unusual ideas: 26%
- Mixing with interesting, thought-provoking people: 25%
- Environment where you can have fun, play and follow your curiosity: 17%