Understanding the Skills Gap
What is a Skills Gap?
If you are an employer looking for quality help or a job seeker looking for employment, you may be familiar with the term "Skills Gap". The skills gap has been a source of frustration for both employers and job seekers - it is defined as the gap between what employers need and what job seekers are offering. Unfortunately there is a gap in specific skills required in the job market, which are not being met by the job candidates. This leads to a number of job opportunities being unfulfilled.
What are some causes for the Skills Gap?
Traditional Education is not meeting the needs of the Job Market. Many students believe that once they complete their education that they should be able find employment. What they don't realize is that employers are looking for specific skills beyond what they learned in school. Unfortunately many of these skills are not taught in the traditional education system. As a result, continuing education courses have become more essential today than ever before. Continuing education courses allow students, entering the workforce to, supplement their education with skills not taught in school.
Lack of Soft Skills from Job Seekers. Many new graduates, while tech-savvy, lack basic communication skills and other critical soft skills. While your technical skills may get your foot in the door, your people skills are what open most of the doors to come. Your work ethic, your attitude, your communication skills, your emotional intelligence and a whole host of other personal attributes are the soft skills that are crucial for career success.
Reluctance to provide Training by the Employers. Many employers would prefer that job seekers and employees acquire training for their specific needs on their own, but this is increasingly unrealistic. No one has ever walked into a job without some level of training, even if the job is directly related to job candidates field of study. A training department or a proper training solution is essential for any growing business. Times are changing and new skills are emerging. Employers must take some responsibility in working with current and new staff to provide adequate training based on their specific needs.
Bridging the Gap
The onus is on all of us. Education providers, Job Seekers and Employers must work together to bridge this gap. New training must be readily available and individuals must be in a mindset to learn continuously.
Modern Theory Institute is a Skills Training and Education Center that provides continuing education opportunities for individuals looking for employment or career advancement. Modern Theory Institute also provides customized training for businesses looking for corporate training solutions.
Our goal is to help bridge the skill gap by providing up to date training in areas that the job market is looking for. We have 50+ course offerings, which include training in industry software and global certifications.
Contact info@moderntheoryinstitute.com for more information.
