News: Performance Management
Personal development and communication skills training: CBI re-emphasises graduate lack
09 October 2008
The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has reaffirmed its belief that training in communication skills, self-management and similar "soft skills" is needed for a significant proportion of graduate employees.
Richard Wainer, head of education and skills at the organisation, issued his observations following further insights on graduate skill lacks from both the Institute of Directors and accountancy firm KPMG.
Studies from both bodies have revealed in recent weeks that "a good degree isn't enough any more", with 40 per cent of the Institute's members agreeing that university leavers are not fully prepared for the world of work.
In light of the findings, Mr Wainer laid out his seven-point soft skills "framework" to the Independent.
The seven areas include self-management, team working, "business and customer awareness" and problem solving, he explained.
Communication skills and the application of numeracy and information technology are further key attributes he identified which can be honed via training.
It was at a London delegation of organisations including McDonald's, the Royal Bank of Scotland and Microsoft last month that the CBI originally alluded to the benefits personal development training would have on many graduates.
Richard Lambert, its director general, claimed a quarter of employers are dissatisfied with the "soft skills" of graduate recruits.
