5 things young people can do to become “Work Ready”

Becoming work-ready is crucial for young people to thrive in the professional world. Here are five essential steps they can take to prepare themselves for the workforce:

1. Acquire relevant education and training: Pursue education and training programs that align with their career interests and goals. This may involve obtaining a degree, certification, or specific vocational training that equips them with the necessary knowledge and skills for their desired field.
2. Develop strong communication skills: Focus on enhancing both verbal and written communication skills, as effective communication is vital in any work environment. This includes the ability to articulate ideas clearly, listen actively, and adapt communication styles to different audiences.
3. Cultivate critical thinking and problem-solving abilities: Foster a mindset that encourages critical thinking and the ability to analyze complex situations. Developing problem-solving skills allows young individuals to approach challenges creatively and find innovative solutions in the workplace.
4. Build a professional network: Actively engage in networking opportunities, both in-person and online, to connect with professionals in their desired industry. Building a strong network can provide valuable insights, mentorship, and potential job opportunities, helping them to stay informed about industry trends and developments.
5. Gain relevant work experience through internships or part-time jobs: Seek out internships, co-op programs, or part-time jobs in their field of interest to gain practical experience and develop a deeper understanding of the industry. Practical experience not only enhances their resume but also provides valuable insights into the day-to-day operations of their chosen profession.

By focusing on these key areas, young individuals can better position themselves to enter the workforce with the necessary skills, knowledge, and confidence to succeed in their chosen career paths.

Stephen Hickmore

Stephen is a hospitality professional from Johannesburg South Africa. His career started with THF hotels in the UK and subsequently with the Southern Sun Hotel group in Johannesburg. Stephen’s first steps into entrepreneurship was Hickmore Recruitment / CareerMap,  a leading supplier of Senior and Exec recruitment services.  Stephen was a founder  of Pple Hospitality (formerly HSC) the largest Hospitality Industry full-service outsourced staffing company in South Africa. In March 2020 Stephen became a director and owner of the Swiss Hotel School South Africa, which is now his full time passion.

SHS – Institute of Hospitality Management

SHS – Institute of Culinary Arts

Stephen writes for a number of publications on food and hospitality industry matters, trends and opinions. He also hosts a Podcast on Spotify “Hospitality Insight with The SilverFox”