PYVOT

Last Friday, I had the opportunity to be an event panelist at the Workforce Velocity summit hosted by Rebellion Group.

My topic was on closing skill gaps in the workforce. If you missed it, here are my thoughts.

Employers need to stop making the bar for entry level roles so high. They look for purple squirrels and often are unrealistic in their hiring search. Also, you can’t see a persons essence or soft skills by scanning their resume with AI. The experts and leaders in every field have a responsibility to teach the next generation instead of viewing training as a nuisance. In business we say that the best customers are the ones you already have. Employers, invest in the current employees you have with more hands on and action focused learning. No matter anyone’s age, we must continue to learn. Training shouldn’t just be for recent grads. Every person on your team affects your P&L statement, whether they know it or not. Closing skills gaps as an employer increases the quality of work your teams produce and saves you money down the line.

Educators need to work closer with top employers and let the doers take over the class for a day. There needs to be more partnerships between workforce development programs, young professional groups and universities. Please require internships and facilitate mentorships.

Young professionals.. please advocate for yourselves, know your weaknesses and ask for help. Don’t just learn to have more knowledge, let it lead to action. Give yourself time to study. Closing skill gaps increases your chances of financial independence and allows you to have flexibility in what opportunities you want to accept or decline.

Let’s make Connecticut the best state to work in. We have to do it together. Mentor someone, introduce people to each other, teach a workshop, and support your community online. Thanks for having me Bryn!