Bridging the Gap: Preparing Youth for the Workforce
Our 3rd College and Career (CCR) Network meeting was held on August 29th, 2024, at United Way’s office. Our partners joined us in exploring innovative methods for integrating workforce culture into youth development.
Key takeaways
Entering the workforce can be a daunting experience for many young people. Often, their expectations are shaped by their school experiences, which can lead to unrealistic assumptions about the level of support and performance monitoring they will receive in a professional setting. Exploring the challenges young people face when transitioning from school to work can offer suggestions for employers on how to better integrate youth into the workforce.
Understanding Youth Challenges
Many young people expect a high level of support and regular performance monitoring, similar to what they experienced in school. They are eager to develop new skills and gain practical experience but may feel hesitant to ask for help in the workplace. Preparing them and helping them understand what the expectations could or should be is crucial to avoid disappointment. Expectations can vary greatly depending on the region, students’ backgrounds, and the sectors they are entering. Additionally, the nature of the position—whether it’s a job, internship, or long-term role—can influence both students’ and employers’ expectations. Youth are looking for roles that allow them to contribute significantly, beyond just performing basic tasks.
Suggestions for Employers
- Structured Onboarding: Workplaces could benefit from adopting structured environments similar to educational settings. This includes predictable schedules and clear procedures to support young employees. It can also include mentorship programs, regular check-ins, and clear communication of expectations. A structured and comprehensive onboarding process can help young employees feel more comfortable and confident in their new roles and will help them understand their roles and responsibilities.
- Portfolio Creation: Work with high schools to encourage students to create portfolios to document their experiences, resumes, certificates, and micro-credentials. A well-maintained portfolio can help young employees present their skills and experiences effectively.
- Resume and Job Readiness Training: Join in workforce development activities at schools to teach students how to translate their informal experiences, such as volunteer work, extracurricular activities, and other non-professional experiences, into formal job qualifications through resume building.
- Educational Opportunities: Encourage and support continuous learning by offering to pay for courses, certifications, or degrees that can enhance their skills and career prospects. Providing educational opportunities shows young employees that their growth and development are valued.
- Trauma-Informed Foundations: Integrating trauma-informed practices into your programs can create a supportive environment for youth. This includes understanding their backgrounds and providing the necessary emotional and psychological support.
Integrating young people into the workforce requires thoughtful planning and support from employers. By understanding their expectations and providing the necessary resources and training, employers can help young employees transition smoothly into their new roles and contribute meaningfully to the organization. With the right approach, the workforce can become a place where young people thrive and grow, benefiting both the individuals and the organizations they work for.
