Employability Skills Research Articles

Employment Skills Revisited: A Qualitative Exploration of Multi-Stakeholder Perspective in China’s “3+1” Higher Education Context

The issue of employment for university students is receiving significant attention in China, leading to educational reforms aimed at enhancing students’ employment skills and prospects. One such initiative is the “3+1” higher education programs, characterized by work-based learning. However, the effectiveness of this initiative falls short of expectations due to insufficient understanding of the up-to-date employment skills required by the industry. As such, this qualitative study explored stakeholders’ perceptions regarding the employment skills needed by students enrolled in “3+1” programs. Key challenges and strategies associated with developing students ‘ employment skills were identified through interviews with students, teachers, curriculum planners, industry leaders, and human resource professionals. Findings revealed a consensus among stakeholders on the importance of developing a holistic skill set, acquiring practical experience, increasing adaptability and resilience, embracing lifelong learning, and improving communication skills. Challenges included mismatches between academic learning and industry demands, limited industry exposure, soft skill deficiency, inadequate assessment, insufficient university-industry cooperation, and students’ low motivation, for which corresponding strategies were proposed. This study provides valuable insights into enhancing the employability of “3+1” graduates, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive education aligned with industry needs.

THE CRITICAL ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION AND COMPETENCY THROUGH IMPROVING TEAMWORK AND KNOWLEDGE TRANSFORMATION IN THE FURNITURE BUSINESS IN JEPARA

The Jepara furniture industry, facing global pressure and intense competition, must integrate technology and increase competence to maintain competitiveness. This article analyzes the critical role of technology adoption and competency development through improving teamwork and knowledge transformation in the context of the furniture business in Jepara. Using quantitative research methods and conducting surveys on furniture companies in Jepara, data was analyzed through questionnaires that focused on critical variables, such as technology adoption, teamwork, knowledge transformation, and business competency indicators. The research results show that technology adoption, improved teamwork, and knowledge transformation positively correlate with business competency. Technology integration provides operational efficiency, while improved teamwork and knowledge transformation improve employee skills and response to market dynamics. This article provides insight into the importance of this strategy in creating an efficient and responsive business model in the Jepara furniture industry. The practical implications include guidance for furniture business players to increase competitiveness through technology adoption, strong teamwork and effective knowledge management.

The Impact of Policy Work on Employability Skills in the Policy Project Connected to the Criminal Appeals Clinic at the Open University

The impact of policy work in allowing students to obtain skills in case work should not be understated. At the Open University (OU) one of our modules on our law degree incorporates clinical legal education. The Criminal Justice Clinic (CJC) is a digital clinic that sits within that. The purpose of the CJC is to assist clients that state they have been wrongly convicted of serious criminal offences and are serving long sentences in prison. It aims to assist with social justice and provide students with professional skills. Students research and advise on live criminal cases under the supervision of a solicitor. They apply legal principles to determine whether there are any grounds for an appeal to be made. Students have full access to case papers. It is an innovative project as it aims to teach students legal professional skills working on difficult cases in a digital only setting. Last year we set up a system where students undertake a policy project before commencing work in the clinic. This assists them with acquiring the skills that they need when they work on live criminal cases and helps them understand the background to what they are doing. Students were split into groups and given a policy project to look at and at the end they provided a report. They worked collaboratively to do so and needed to complete the project within a specific time frame. This paper looks at the practicalities of doing such a project digitally and considers the impact on employability skills.

Strategizing Soft Skills Resilience: A Holistic Approach to Mitigating COVID-19 Pandemic Impact on Workforce Development

: In today’s world, soft skills play a very important role for individuals. They help to be successful in the workplace or simply to be able to find a common language with anyone. They also have a crucial impact on the economy, as the acquisition of soft skills contributes to the more efficient functioning of enterprises and the economy as a whole. However, in the current context, due to the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, certain difficulties have arisen in their development in countries around the world. That is why it remains relevant to conduct research in terms of their improvement (in particular, for the human resources potential of employees of enterprises and civil servants). Thus, the aim of the study was to develop a unified framework to help overcome the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the soft skills of employees in Ukraine, both in the public and private sectors. The main research methods used were analysis, forecasting, abstraction and the historical method. Thus, the paper investigated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the professional skills of the Ukrainian workforce. The article shows a decrease in the number of working-age population in the Lviv region and highlights various factors contributing to this decrease. It also analyses the correlation between different factors that influence the development of soft skills. Based on this, the paper then offers advice on how to overcome the consequences of the pandemic, and builds a model that summarizes the advice and provides an understanding of how it should be applied. The work will be useful for studying soft skills as such and understanding the possibilities of their recovery after the COVID-19 consequences; it also provides a better understanding of the impact of the pandemic on the development of Ukraine as a whole.

Examining Graduates' Job-Readiness, Employability Skills, and Awareness using machine learning

Examining Graduates' Job-Readiness, Employability Skills, and Awareness using machine learning

Influence of Training and Honorarium on the Work Effectiveness of Employees at the Regional Secretariat Procurement of Goods and Services Division, North Konawe Regency Government

This study aims to analyze the influence of training and honorarium on the work effectiveness of employees at the Regional Secretariat Procurement of Goods and Services Division, North Konawe Regency Government. There are still deficiencies in the external equity of honorarium, creating uncertainty and disappointment among employees. This study seeks to answer whether training and honorarium affect employee work effectiveness. The research methodology used is descriptive methods and multiple linear regression analysis with a sample size of 31 employees. The main results of the study indicate that training and honorarium have a positive and significant effect on employee work effectiveness. Employees perceive the provided training and honorarium as highly satisfactory, which implicates an improvement in work effectiveness. Good training enhances employees' knowledge and skills, while fair honorarium motivates employees to work more effectively. The implications of this study suggest that improvements in the training and honorarium system can enhance employee work effectiveness in the institution.

Human Resource Management Challenges in Modern Hospitality at the Coastal Regions

Purpose: The main objective of this study was to explore the human resource management challenges in modern hospitality at the coastal regions. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings revealed that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the human resource management challenges in modern hospitality at the coastal regions. Preliminary empirical review revealed that the high turnover rates prevalent in coastal hospitality, the need for cross-cultural HRM strategies to manage a diverse workforce, the importance of sustainability initiatives in HR practices, the impact of technology adoption on HR efficiency, the necessity of effective workforce planning in hurricane-prone regions, and the role of talent management and career development in attracting and retaining skilled employees. Collectively, these findings highlight the critical role of human resource management in shaping the success and sustainability of hospitality establishments in coastal regions. To address the identified challenges, practitioners in the industry must consider tailored HR strategies that account for seasonal fluctuations, cultural diversity, environmental sustainability, and technological advancements. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: By grounding the study on these three theories; Human Capital theory, Resource-Based View theory, and Contingency theory, researchers can develop a robust framework for exploring the human resource management challenges in modern hospitality at coastal regions, taking into account the importance of human capital development, resource-based competitive advantage, and contextual contingencies. The study therefore recommended for developing tailored HR strategies, investing in employee training and development, promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility, enhancing employee wellbeing, leveraging technology for HR efficiency and being crisis and disaster prepared. Addressing the unique human resource management challenges in modern coastal hospitality requires a proactive and strategic approach. By implementing these recommendations, hospitality businesses in coastal regions can create a more resilient and effective HR management system, leading to improved guest experiences, employee satisfaction, and overall business success. Keywords: Coastal Hospitality, Human Resource Management, Challenges, Modern Hospitality, Coastal Regions

Shaping Tomorrow: Anticipating Skills Requirements Based on the Integration of Artificial Intelligence in Business Organizations—A Foresight Analysis Using the Scenario Method

This study examines the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on workforce skill requirements as AI becomes increasingly integrated into business operations. Using foresight analysis and scenario-based methods, we anticipate the necessary skills for future AI-integrated workplaces. A SWOT analysis evaluates three potential paths for AI adoption—gradual, aggressive, and selective—to project the evolving skills needed for employee success in changing business environments. The findings emphasize the critical need for both enhanced technical proficiency and soft skills, such as creative problem-solving and interpersonal abilities, across all AI adoption scenarios. The study highlights the importance of strategic reskilling and continuous learning to align employee skills with the new business paradigms shaped by AI. It provides a roadmap for businesses, educators, and policymakers to collaboratively develop a resilient and adaptable workforce for an AI-enhanced future.

A Study on Skills of Employees with Reference to Tecumseh Product India Pvt. Ltd

A Study on Skills of Employees with Reference to Tecumseh Product India Pvt. Ltd

Exploring the poverty-reduction benefits of agricultural machinery socialization services in China: Implications for the sustainable development of farmers

Sustainable development is crucial for alleviating poverty among farmers. In this study, we examined the impact, and the mechanism underlying this impact, of the adoption of agricultural machinery services by farmers on their relative poverty from a multidimensional poverty perspective by employing the logit and ordered logit models and the Karlson–Holm–Breen (KHB) method. These results indicate that adopting agricultural machinery services can significantly reduce the probability of relative poverty among farmers, thereby expediting the sustainability of rural development. However, this poverty-reduction effect varies based on age and sex. The adoption of agricultural machinery services mainly reduces poverty by increasing farmers' human capital. Training in employment skills and non-agricultural work experience are the main transmission mechanisms. Therefore, the socialization of agricultural machinery services can be used as an effective policy tool to reduce relative poverty in developing countries, promote sustained improvements in farmers’ incomes, and achieve sustainability in rural development.

Destinations after higher education non-completion: the role of social background and pre-tertiary vocational qualifications

Prior research has shown that students from lower socio-economic backgrounds are less likely to graduate. We examine if this can be explained by background-specific pathways into higher education. Many students in Germany enter higher education with a vocational qualification and prior vocational qualifications occur more often among students from lower socio-economic backgrounds. We argue that vocational qualifications shift opportunity structures and opportunity costs of students who have to decide between continuing higher education and alternative options. We therefore examine if parental background and vocational qualifications are associated with the destinations after non-completion. We distinguish the destinations “re-entering higher education”, “vocational training” and “skilled employment”. Using the German Educational Panel Study (NEPS starting cohort 6), we apply competing risks models. Our results show that non-completers from higher socio-economic backgrounds are more likely to re-enter higher education than non-completers from lower socio-economic backgrounds. The higher rates of transfer to skilled employment among non-completers from lower backgrounds are mainly due to the fact that they more often hold a vocational qualification and have good chances to enter the skilled labour market without additional educational investments. Our results hence shed some new light on the question how vocational training “diverts” lower background students from higher education.

Напрямки подолання наслідків впливу пандемії COVID-19 на м’які навички кадрового потенціалу України

The purpose of the work is to develop a single comprehensive system that will helpto overcome the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic impact on the soft skills of the personnel potential of Ukraine. In order to determine the main methods of overcoming the COVID-19 pandemic consequences, a survey of random respondents was conducted. In addition, the purpose of the survey was to assess respondents’ own soft skills during the pandemic and their changes before and after it. The article used the historical method, methods of abstraction, forecasting and analysis. The method of systematization became one of the main ones in achieving the goals and objectives of the research. Thus, we were able to systematize the research results, assess the possibilities for developing a mechanism for overcoming the consequences of the COVID-19 crisis, and form them in a single system. It has been established that the COVID-19 pandemic has a direct impact on the soft skills of personnel potential in Ukraine. People learned how to adapt to new working conditions, how to communicate in an unfamiliar mode, thereby acquiring new skills. The concepts of self-motivation, stability, and adaptability have become more important. The survey conducted in this study confirmed the importance of all these components. The authors of the article propose several strategies for coping with the consequences of the pandemic. The first is independent continuous development and improvement of skills. It can be online training, participation in events, etc. It is also important to provide employees with online tools for collaboration so that employees feel comfortable using the latest technologies. Providing employees with flexible working conditions is also an important aspect, as this will allow them to learn and develop more willingly and effectively. A favorable working environment will help maintain psychological health. Employers can offer employee assistance programs, counseling services, and more. These approaches can significantly increase the effectiveness of the functioning of employees and improve the development of soft skills in the conditions of any crisis. The research is valuable for economic science and has practical significance. The article reveals an understanding of how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the soft skills of employees, their ability to solve problems, make decisions, communicate, etc. This is how we can formulate people’s ideas about how to improve their skills, how to learn to solve problems that arose during the pandemic. An effective mechanism for overcoming the consequences of the pandemic on the soft skills of human resources (both private and public sectors) is becoming an urgent task for companies, government structures and educational institutions, and therefore important for analysis and research in academic circles. The research is very relevant in modern conditions, as the ability to overcome a crisis is important not only during a pandemic, but also in connection with other factors, in particular, with the beginning of a war and its impact on people’s lives.

Artificial intelligence and skilled employment in South Africa: Exploring key variables

The discourse surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) and its repercussions on skilled employment merits careful consideration. While AI technologies have the potential to result in job displacement within specific sectors, they concurrently usher in new employment opportunities, especially for individuals possessing advanced skills. The primary objective of this paper is to thoroughly evaluate the impact of AI on skilled employment within the South African economy. To achieve this objective, the study employs the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model and Granger causality analysis, spanning from 2012Q1 to 2021Q4. The results derived from the ARDL estimation reveal a substantial and positive contribution of artificial intelligence to skilled employment in South Africa, a trend observed in both the long and short run. However, two structural breaks were identified in the data, hence a re-estimation of the ARDL model. The re-estimated ARDL model revealed a negative and significant relationship between AI and skilled employment. In light of these findings, this study advocates implementing regulations and labor market policies that promote the responsible deployment of AI technology while safeguarding workers’ rights and job security. This could include establishing guidelines for AI deployment in the workplace, ensuring transparency and accountability in AI systems, and implementing social safety nets to support workers during job transitions.

Peer Assisted Study Skills Initiative: Pilot Project

This case study provides a reflective analysis of the Peer Assisted Study Skills (PASS) pilot project, which took place between June to August 2022 at the East London Global Banking School campuses. The pilot project evaluated the effectiveness of the student supporting student initiative in providing academic support for initial-year students from two chosen programmes and partnerships. Volunteer second year students from these programmes were recruited and trained to be PASS leaders. Findings illustrate initial year students’ improved motivation, voice and development of academic writing, study and IT skills. Leaders reported enhanced confidence, learning and employability skills. Lecturers attested to the effectiveness of PASS as initial year students acquired the relevant skills much faster than they would normally have done whilst leaders developed skills for their future careers. These significant outcomes paved the way for its expansion beyond the East London campuses, initially to the Manchester campus.

Analisis Preferensi Konsumen Kedai Ruang Coffe Di Mogolaing Kecamatan Kotamobagu Barat Kota Kotamobagu Sulawesi Utara

The study aims to analyze consumer preferences for Kedai Ruang Coffee located in Mogolaing, Kotamobagu Barat District, Kotamobagu City, North Sulawesi. This research was conducted from July to December 2023 at the Kedai Ruang Coffee location in Mogolaing, Kotamobagu Barat District, Kotamobagu City. The study employed data collection methods including the distribution of questionnaires, interviews, and literature review. The sampling technique used was non-probability sampling, specifically accidental sampling, with a total of 40 respondents, averaging 10 respondents per day. The data were analyzed qualitatively and described descriptively, while quantitative analysis was performed using Likert scales to determine consumer preferences through Important Performance Analysis. Data processing was done using Microsoft Excel 2007 software. The results indicate that consumer preferences for Kedai Ruang Coffee are categorized into 13 attributes divided into 4 quadrants. Attributes in quadrant I which are the top priority, namely the attribute of hospitality to customers. Attributes in quadrant II that are included in maintaining achievement, namely politeness to customers, ease of communication, cleanliness and tidiness of the place, attractive place decoration and available equipment facilities. Quadrant III attributes that include low priority, namely timeliness in serving consumers, employee skills and abilities, speed of the serving process, employee alertness when customers visit, readiness and willingness to serve customers and ease in responding to requests. Attributes in quadrant IV that are considered excessive, namely the neatness attribute of the waiter's appearance.

Academic self-efficacy, career development learning, and employability skills of Chinese university students

Academic self-efficacy, career development learning, and employability skills of Chinese university students

Sustainable Evolution: Investigating the Factors Contributing to the Transformation of Coffee Businesses from Unplanned to Well-Planned, Sustainable Enterprises in Padang

This research aims to identify the factors contributing to the sustainable evolution of coffee businesses in Padang, West Sumatra. The research is an exploratory qualitative study. Each coffee shop, while differing in focus and approach, prioritizes quality, utilizes technology, and implements strategies for long-term sustainability in its operations. Each coffee shop demonstrates unique strategies in outbound logistics, whether through distribution methods, technology integration, strategic cooperation, or customer engagement, tailored to its specific business model and target audience. Each coffee shop employs unique marketing and sales strategies tailored to its business model and target audience, emphasizing customer engagement, promotional diversity, and long-term relationship building. Each coffee shop offers unique services, focusing on customer experience, atmosphere, personalized interactions, and proactive issue resolution to build strong customer relationships and foster loyalty. Each coffee shop employs distinct procurement strategies tailored to its business model and goals, focusing on supplier relationships, diversification, and preparedness for uncertainties to ensure smooth operations and long-term sustainability. Each coffee shop employs structured mentoring, technology integration, and maintenance practices tailored to support long-term sustainability and business growth, ensuring efficient operations and a positive environmental and community impact. Each coffee shop employs structured recruitment, training, and development programs tailored to their business needs, emphasizing employee skill enhancement, performance improvement, and continuous learning to provide excellent service. Each coffee shop employs technology as a tool to enhance sustainability, efficiency, and productivity, utilizing strategies tailored to their specific needs and challenges, whether it’s overcoming network interference, ensuring reliable technology selection, or managing repair costs efficiently.

PROBLEMS FACED BY SMALL SCALE INDUSTRIES ON ADOPTION OF HRD PRACTICES - WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO TIRUNELVELI DISTRICT, TAMIL NADU

This study examines the challenges faced by small-scale industries (SSIs) in adopting Human Resource Development (HRD) practices, with a specific focus on Tirunelveli District, Tamil Nadu. SSIs play a pivotal role in regional economic development, but their ability to implement modern HRD practices is often constrained by multiple factors. Key issues include limited financial resources, lack of awareness, inadequate training facilities, resistance to change, and a shortage of skilled HR professionals. These challenges prevent SSIs from improving employee skills, enhancing productivity, and achieving sustainable growth. The research uses a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods to assess the impact of these challenges on the overall growth and competitiveness of SSIs in the region. The findings reveal that financial constraints and lack of awareness are the most significant barriers, while other factors such as low literacy levels and limited external support also play a role. The study concludes with recommendations to address these issues, offering potential solutions to improve HRD adoption, thereby enhancing the performance and sustainability of SSIs in Tirunelveli. This research contributes to understanding the critical HRD needs of SSIs and provides insights for policymakers and industry leaders to help overcome these challenges.

Factors for a successful transition to the labor market for persons with disabilities: The perspective of special education teachers in Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND: Despite legislation that promotes the transition of young people from school to work and the increasing knowledge of the factors that contribute to successful transitions, young people with disabilities face lower rates of participation in employment, education, and vocational training compared to their non-disabilities peers. OBJECTIVE: The paper aims to examine the perspective of special education teachers (SET) regarding the success factors of the transition to the labor market for persons with disabilities after graduating from secondary school in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. METHODS: To conduct the research, we used a questionnaire; participants were sampled intentionally, and they were a representative sample at the level of Riyadh city (N = 180) of secondary school SET in the 2022/2023 school year. RESULTS: Educators have identified several factors critical to success in the labor market transition which can be separated into three categories; 1) person-centered factors, 2) family-specific factors, and 3) community instruction-specific factors. There were no statistically significant differences between the responses of participating SET according to their demographic characteristics (gender, educational level, and years of teaching experience) and the factors for successful labor market transition for persons with disability questionnaire. The results were interpreted in light of the theoretical framework and previous studies, and many recommendations were made for those that employ persons with disabilities. CONCLUSION: The findings highlight some of the areas that are critical to the labor market transition: employment and vocational skills’ training in secondary school, and families and community members’ attitudes and high expectations for the future of persons with disabilities.

How to conduct successful business process automation projects? An analysis of key factors in the context of robotic process automation

PurposeIn recent years, the robotic process automation (RPA) technology, a software-based method to automate routine tasks in business processes, has gained significant interest and adoption. However, many implementation projects fail and current literature lacks a synthesis and comprehensive overview of factors that challenge the implementation of RPA, have an impact on success or failure of projects, or, play an enabling role in an RPA project. Hence, the purpose of this research is to identify key factors that should be considered by organizations when conducting an RPA project.Design/methodology/approachThe paper adopts a qualitative methodology based on data collected in a systematic literature review (SLR) and interviews with 10 RPA experts. Using inductive coding, an integrated framework of key factors is developed.FindingsThe results suggest that the key factors for a successful RPA introduction can be divided into human, organizational and technical factors. Important aspects include for example project management techniques, capabilities and skills of employees, as well as data security considerations.Originality/valueThe paper contributes to knowledge by synthesizing previously dispersed knowledge into an integrated framework, as well as by complementing previous results with new qualitative, empirical data. Additionally, the RPA-specific factors are put into the perspective of persistent problems in information systems development.