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Bridging the Skills Gap: Preparing Students for Their Next Job 

Angela
Photo of a woman holding a clipboard. Bridging the Skills Gap: Preparing Students for Their Next Job 

As mentors and educators, we have a unique opportunity to shape the future of our students and prepare them for the challenges of the modern job market. Bridging the skills gap in our classrooms is not just a goal; it’s a responsibility we must embrace. Let’s explore coaching and assignment strategies that foster job skills, work readiness, and employability among our students.

Emphasize Practical Application

Create assignments where students apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. Trade traditional lectures for micro-learning, where students receive smaller chunks of information and then demonstrate their understanding with a practical activity. Integrate projects that simulate what students will do at work, such as writing reports, creating strategic plans, and role-playing scenarios they will experience. Practical application enhances critical thinking and problem-solving skills, equipping students with the tools they need to succeed in their future careers. 

Paul Miller, Assistant Professor of Communication at Central Penn College, uses several practical assignments to help students with real-world skills. He assigns students volunteer hours as part of class projects. After volunteering, students reflect on their experiences. The project allows students to move beyond the classroom and engage with their community. Miller also uses class hours to promote networking. On a recent podcast, he said, “In almost all of my classes I’ve gone away from some of the weekly assignment type things and really push them to go to the job fairs and networking events.”

Cultivate Soft Skills

The NACE 2023 Jobs Report recognizes the importance of soft skills in the professional world. Steve Hassinger, the Director of Career Services at Central Penn College, has over 30 years of experience working with students and employers. He sees the results of the NACE report in action. On a recent podcast, Hassinger said, “I think we as educators have to prepare our students to be continuous learners, to evolve with [their] jobs. If they can communicate, if they’re critical thinkers, if they’re professional, they’re going to set themselves apart from a lot of other job seekers.

Listen to the full podcast with Paul Miller and Steve Hassinger.

Employers want problem-solvers, team players, and people with strong work ethics, communication, and analytical skills. As professors, we can coach students to improve communication, teamwork, adaptability, and emotional intelligence. Create classroom environments that promote discussion, collaboration, and effective communication. We often hear that students dread group projects in person and virtually. Coach them that group projects in class simulate what they will experience at work. These projects provide opportunities to improve communication skills, leadership practice innovation, and conflict management. Giving feedback and constructive criticism can help students develop these crucial skills further.

Create Real-World Assignments

While the academic paper fosters organization, written communication, and research skills, employers want to see work that applies to the job. In addition to the foundation of academic papers, assign students projects they will use in their careers. Consider business plans, marketing plans, project management schedules, video role-plays, customer service scripts, and other tools used in your field. 

Foster a Growth Mindset

Empower your students with a growth mindset by emphasizing continuous learning and resilience. Dorothy Miraglia, Ph.D., Vice President of Academics and Professor Services, provides faculty training. She encourages instructors to find ways to relate to students and build a relationship. Miraglia says, “When students face challenges in and out of the classroom, remind them why they are going to school and of their goals. Listen, guide them, and encourage them.” She also advises giving students second chances and being firm but flexible with deadlines and assignments. As professors, we can lead by example, sharing stories of our experiences and how we’ve improved and adapted.

Promote Industry Partnerships

Forge partnerships with local industries and professionals relevant to your field of study. Invite guest speakers, organize in-person or virtual field visits, or arrange internships to expose your students to real-world practices. If you’re teaching online, record interviews with guests to expose students to people working in the field. Industry collaboration ensures that your teaching remains up-to-date with current trends and employer expectations.

By adopting these coaching strategies, we can profoundly impact our students’ lives and pave the way for their future success. 

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Angela

Angela Britcher is a writer, communications professor, and instructional designer. She works with The Babb Group and Edusity.
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