Necessary for all jobs and industries

No matter what pathway you’re headed down, your future boss will expect certain “soft” skills from you. These are skills such as…

» having a positive attitude
» turning up on time
» doing your best
» good communication skills
» the ability to work well in a team

These are employability skills you can be developing at any time. How are you doing? Have a look at the employability skills below.

Positive Attitude

Waiaro Pai

• I am positive and have a “can do” attitude.
• I am optimistic, honest and show respect.
• I am happy, friendly and enthusiastic.
• I am motivated to work hard towards goals.

Communication

Whitiwhiti Korero

• I understand, and reflect on, the way I communicate and how it affects others.
• I ask questions when unsure or unclear.
• I understand how employers, employees and customers communicate.
• I speak, listen and share ideas appropriately.

Team Work

Mahi Ngātahi

• I work well with others to complete tasks and meet goals.
• I contribute to new ideas or approaches.
• I work well with others of different genders, cultures or beliefs.
• I recognise the authority of supervisors and managers, and follow directions.

 Self Management

Whakahaere-whaiaro

• I arrive on time, with appropriate clothing and equipment.
• I understand, and reflect on, my own words, actions and behaviours.
• I show commitment and responsibility.
• I am dependable, follow instructions and complete assigned tasks.
• I am responsible for my own health and wellbeing, and follow health and safety guidelines.
• I am clean, tidy and smell fresh.

Willingness to Learn

He hiahia ki te ako

• I am willing to learn new tasks, skills and information.
• I am curious and enthusiastic about the job, organisation and industry.
• I look for opportunities to work more effectively to make the organisation better.
• I accept advice and learn from feedback.

Thinking Skills (problem solving and decision making)

Ngā pukenga whakaaro (rapa rongoā te tuku whakatau)

• I identify and assess options before making a decision.
• I recognise problems and use initiative to find solutions.
• I think about consequences before I act.
• I recognise when I need to seek advice.

Resilience

Pakaritanga

• I adapt and am flexible in new and changing situations.
• I handle challenges and setbacks and do not give up.
• I am able to seek support and help when needed.
• I recognise and accept mistakes and learn from them.