Graduates 'lacking workplace soft skills'

Some graduates believe they are entitled to a job despite lacking many of the skills required to operate in the workplace, it has been claimed.

Dr John McGurk, advisor for learning and talent development at the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, says that a great deal of learning is achieved by doing the basic jobs in an organisation.

"I think the jury is out on whether the graduates are coming out with higher skills," he commented.

"Some graduates think that being a graduate automatically entitles you to be on a fast track towards executive level or at least management level."

Dr McGurk went on to say that one of the major problems in British industry is that employers are finding university leavers, such as those in graduate sales jobs, do not have the skills to communicate with customers and to work effectively with their colleagues.

Studies by the Confederation of British Industry earlier this week revealed more flexible working hours, extended shut-downs, extra holiday and cuts in paid overtime have all become more commonplace in the workplace as the recession has deepened.

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Filed: 26-06-2009