The foundation or basic skills are no longer limited to reading, writing and arithmetic, says Dr. Jacquelyn P. Robinson, a workforce development specialist with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System.

"In today's high-performance, high-tech workplace, employers want workers who have a strong foundation in basic literacy and computational skills. Individuals who do not have the skills necessary to perform complex tasking and who are not dependable will not be hired for jobs today or tomorrow," Robinson says.

Basic academic skills are essential for high job performance. Workers should have the ability and desire to learn and willingness to listen and follow instructions.

Having good higher-order thinking skills is more important that having good academic skills, says Robinson. The ability to think, reason and make sound decisions is crucial for employees. A person who can think critically, act logically, and evaluate situations to make decisions and solve problems is a valuable asset to any employer.

The most important skills wanted by employers are good personal qualities. Most companies have difficulty effectively utilizing workers lacking personal skills. Workers with desirable personal traits are those who take their job seriously, come to work on time and dress appropriately every day. They deal with others honestly and openly, displaying respect for themselves, their coworkers and their supervisors.

Teens completing high school also have greater lifelong earning potential than do their counterparts who do not graduate, says Robinson.

Those who finish high school can expect to earn an average annual income of $26,000. Those who do not complete high school can expect to earn around $19,700 or less. This amount is roughly only three-fourths the income of those with a high school diploma.

A person's lifelong earning potential rises in proportion to the level of education completed. In addition to making more money, a person can also get into the work force quicker and have a greater chance of succeeding. The unemployment rate declines as the level of education increases.

People with higher levels of education find it easier to get and keep a job for two main reasons, says Robinson. "One, they have better job skills, including reading, writing, math, communications and problem solving, and two, they have a good work ethic and a good attitude."

(Source: Jacquelyn Robinson, Workforce Development Specialist, 334-844-5353.)

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