Employer Expectations

A team of employers met recently to identify the competencies that workers need in order to succeed in an occupation. This was accomplished through an extensive survey of current occupational literature, as well as information obtained from workers, educators, and students. A list of over 500 skills was compiled. An analysis of this list by over 300 persons resulted in a list of 27 basic skills, which are necessary for minimum acceptable performance in an occupation.

1. Punctuality
2. Dependability
3. Getting along with others
4. Working as a team member
5. Organizing the work activities of others
6. Understanding written information
7. Basic writing skills
8. Basic speaking skills
9. Being neat and clean in appearance
10. Maintaining good health
11. Knowing your strengths and weaknesses
12. Giving an honest day's work
13. Loyalty to your organization
14. Making independent decisions
15. Using initiative and imagination
16. Knowing what is expected
17. Basic arithmetic skills
18. Knowing how to use materials and equipment
19. Locating information
20. Having specialized training
21. Knowledge of operating procedures
22. Following instructions
23. Working without close supervision
24. Working under pressure
25. Adjusting to work situations
26. Managing time and materials effectively
27. Following safety regulations