Employability Skills WorkshopThe 8 skills every employer wants

The CBI Top 8 Employability Skills

According to the Confederation of British Industry, these are the most valued skills: 1. Communication - verbal, written, listening 2. Teamwork - collaborating effectively 3. Problem-solving - finding solutions under pressure 4. Initiative - going beyond what's asked 5. Organisation - planning and managing time 6. Digital skills - using technology confidently 7. Resilience - bouncing back from setbacks 8. Commercial awareness - understanding business

ActivitySTAR Examples Practice

In pairs15 min

For each skill, think of a specific example from your school or personal life where you demonstrated it. Use the STAR method: Situation / Task / Action / Result. Practise explaining your example to a partner in 30 seconds. They will give you feedback.

What Employers Say

97%of employers rate communication as essential

89%say resilience is a key gap in school leavers

76%would prioritise employability skills over grades

Discussion

Reflection

1Which skill do you feel strongest in? Give an example.

2Which skill is your biggest development area?

3Which skill do you think is MOST valued in your target career?

4Name one thing you will do in the next month to develop a weaker skill.