CAREER READY
3 strategies to prepare teens for life after school january / february 2024
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Courtesy of Family Features
For some time , heading to college or joining the workforce have been the standard choices for teens upon high school graduation . Today , in part due to technology and social media , students have access to myriad career paths that are all but traditional .
With an increasingly dynamic career landscape creating an awareness of jobs that didn ’ t exist even 10 years ago and a shortage in the workforce , there ’ s a willingness for both potential employees and employers to look at careers and young talent from a whole new perspective .
“ There isn ’ t a ‘ typical ’ career anymore ,” said Dr . Lorna Bryant , Gen Z career expert and head of career education for Pearson Virtual Schools . “ With the perfect storm in the workforce of boomers retiring , many people still not returning to work in the wake of the pandemic and a population that has declined for the last 50 years , this generation ( ages 11-26 ) is positioned extremely well . Employers want and need them . In short , the scales have flipped to the supply side and demand is causing many employers to remove barriers to work entry . Whether high school grads go to college or work , developing in-demand skills early will help them secure and succeed in the jobs of the future .”
Consider these tips from Bryant to help students explore the many options in front of them and prepare for the possibilities that await after high school .
HELP KIDS CULTIVATE DURABLE SKILLS
While technology has transformed the world of work , an increasing number of careers prioritize durable skills over technical or hard skills . Durable skills ( also known as “ soft ” or “ human ” skills ) include collaboration , leadership , communication and attention to detail , along with traits like empathy , grit and resilience . According to Pearson ’ s Power Skills report , these are some of the most in-demand skills for employers . In addition , research from America Succeeds found employers seek durable skills 3.8 times more frequently than the top five technical or hard skills in every location , industry sector and educational attainment level . Possessing these skills is not only attractive to employers but colleges and universities , too . One of the best ways to prepare for the jobs of tomorrow , which don ’ t exist today , is to focus on timeless durable skills .