Thank you, I said this on Thursday morning with utmost sincerity to 44 business people who took time out of their day to attend our second largest C2C (Communication to Careers) session. Having our third largest on Monday I was really concerned on Thursday how many business people would back up, but back up they did and more also came. Enabling us to talk to mostly 2 students at a time. (The closer to a 1 on 1 ratio the more beneficial for the student.) It is a major commitment these business people make; some are sole traders which means they are forsaking income to attend. Several businesses send 2 people, we even had retired business people attend. Their reward a cup of coffee and feeling they may have offered some advice students could put to good use, assisted in building their communication skills and confidence, which ultimately could result in them getting a job. This is local business giving back to the community and they deserve recognition for what they do.
Around 1500 students in the Rockhampton region will finish their secondary school education this year. Quite a few will go on to university or vocational training but many will be seeking full time employment. They can get information about job opportunities, required skills/education, etc., from the internet but not communication competence. A Rockhampton Labour Presentation prepared by the Federal Department of Employment last Wednesday highlighted the importance of communication competence. In a survey they commissioned the employability skills employers considered most essential were interpersonal skills, communication and teamwork. The report also highlighted in the Fitzroy region 31% of employers will only use informal methods to fill positions. No advertising in the paper, on Seek or through a recruitment agency; but methods that include being approached by a job seeker. Confidence and communication skills are arguably essential for the job seeker to be successful getting a job this way.
To the business people that did attend the two C2C’s last week you definitely have made a positive difference to the students you engaged with. The difference not measurable, but at least the federal Department of Employment acknowledge the importance of communication in getting a job. To see the businesses that attended last week’s C2C visit www.ring.org.au/c2c-support.