You’ve probably heard the term ‘employability’, but what does it really mean, and how can you become employable? Let’s explore the essential skills you need - and why they matter - on your journey from degree to career.
Choosing to study at university is one of the most exciting life decisions you will make. It’s a great way to work towards your dream career and develop all-important skills at the same time. Skills that will help you no matter where you decide to go in life. These are known as employability skills, and with the average Australian changing their career five to seven times over a lifetime, they’ve never been more important.
What exactly are employability skills?
Employability skills are essential, transferable skills that make you more attractive to potential employers across any industry. These skills go beyond academic knowledge, equipping you with the tools to adapt and thrive in various roles throughout your career. Being able to show these skills not only helps you secure your first job but also lays the foundation for long-term success in an ever-changing job market.
Some of the most sought-after employability skills from employers include:
- Problem-solving and critical thinking
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Organisation
- Adaptability/resilience
- Leadership
- Creativity
- Negotiating
Why do I need these skills?
Landing a job requires more than just about the technical skills or academic knowledge. Employers are now looking for candidates who can demonstrate evidence of these in-demand, transferable skills. Having these skills demonstrates you're a strong candidate who can add value to their team. Additionally, these abilities will help you adapt with changing situations throughout your working career, keeping you competitive in the job market.
How can UWA help me become employable?
Today's employers are looking for well-rounded candidates who have gained experiences beyond the classroom, such as work-integrated learning, internships, placements, volunteering and extra-curricular activities.
At UWA we offer a wide range of these opportunities to prepare you for your first job but for a successful career. In fact, we're the top university for graduate employability in western Australia (QS Graduate Employability Ranking 2022), meaning our graduates are more likely to pick up the skills and attributes for a successful start in their chosen careers.
Some of the ways you’ll become more employable through your time at UWA include:
UWA badging initiative
Be recognised for participating in and completing activities with a digital badge you can share online, demonstrating to potential employers the skills and experience you have gained.
Careers and employability award
This award program will provide you with decision-making tools, practical experiences, skills and knowledge to help you embark on an enriching future career.
Practicums and field trips
Many of our degrees incorporate practical units, with workplace and fieldwork placements across 4,500+ industry partners in WA, Australia and even overseas.
Work integrated learning
Taken as part of your degree or as an activity that complements your course, Work Integrated Learning (WIL) makes use of our thousands of professional connections to get you invaluable work experience in your chosen field.
Career mentor link
There’s nothing quite like having an expert or established industry figure show you the ropes.Career Mentor Link matches you with a professional in your area of interest, who can give you the benefit of their years of experience while you get to know the business.
For more information about becoming employable during your time at UWA, explore our Employability website.