Employers Forum 2018

Summary

In a 2016 forum at Nelson College, students, employers, and academics gathered to discuss employability and workplace skills. The event aimed to bridge the gap between students and potential employers, emphasizing the importance of soft skills alongside qualifications. Employers shared insights into what they seek in candidates, while students were encouraged to leverage networks and apply for numerous positions to gain feedback. The discussions also highlighted the significance of personal branding and preparation for interviews. Ultimately, passion and dedication were emphasized as vital for success in the competitive job market, particularly in the hospitality industry.

Takeaways

• 👥 The Nelson College established a dedicated employability and workplace manager to assist students in securing employment post-education.
• 🎤 The employers' forum aims to foster dialogue between employers, academics, and students, enhancing mutual understanding of expectations in the job market.
• 🧑‍🎓 Students are encouraged to learn about the skills employers seek beyond qualifications, focusing on soft skills like communication and reliability.
• 🌐 A Pearson-developed online network provides access to over 200,000 hospitality professionals and 40,000 job opportunities across various regions.
• 💼 Applying for numerous jobs is advised to gain feedback and improve application skills over time.
• 💡 Starting a business requires thorough research and understanding of market demand before seeking customers or funding.
• ⏳ Value your time effectively; underestimating project duration can impact business profitability.
• ⭐ Distinguishing yourself in a competitive job market is crucial, and candidates should research dress codes and professional expectations of potential employers.
• ❓ Always prepare questions to ask during interviews to demonstrate interest and engagement.
• ❤️ Passion for your chosen field is essential, as it will help sustain motivation during long working hours.

Q & A

What was the main objective of Nelson College's employment forum?

The main objective was to facilitate discussions between employers and students about employment requirements beyond just qualifications, helping students understand what employers are looking for in potential hires.

How does the employment forum benefit students?

Students have the opportunity to ask employers about their expectations, learn about required skills and competencies, and network to identify potential job opportunities.

What role do soft skills play in employment according to the speakers?

Soft skills, such as communication, reliability, and teamwork, are deemed more important than qualifications for success in the workplace.

What kind of network does Pearson offer for hospitality students?

Pearson provides a free network similar to LinkedIn for hospitality students and graduates, giving access to over 200,000 professionals and 3,000 employers in the hospitality sector.

What advice was given to those considering starting their own business?

It is advised to first secure a customer and conduct market research to validate the business idea before fully launching the business.

What is emphasized regarding valuing one's time in a business?

Valuing time effectively is crucial; entrepreneurs should measure how long tasks take to avoid underestimating project durations and ensure they charge appropriately for their services.

What factors should someone consider when preparing for a job interview?

Candidates should research the company's dress code and culture, and prepare thoughtful questions to ask the employer during the interview to demonstrate genuine interest.

How should applicants approach job applications according to the speakers?

Applicants are encouraged to apply for as many jobs as possible to gain feedback and learn from the application process, improving their chances of success.

What unique quality should candidates highlight when applying for jobs?

Candidates should identify what makes them unique and how they stand out from other applicants, particularly in a competitive field like hospitality.

What is the importance of passion in pursuing a career in hospitality?

Having a genuine passion for the work is crucial, as it drives motivation and commitment, especially during long working hours in the hospitality industry.