We spoke to Milimo Banji, award winning entrepreneur, leader and founder and CEO of the Gen Z talent agency TapIn that supports some of the biggest employers in the UK to attract, and hire diverse youth talent. We asked his thoughts on the opportunities in the current jobs market, the importance of soft skills and how to get career-ready.
CAN YOU GIVE 3 HELPFUL TIPS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE WHO ARE APPROACHING THE JOB MARKET TODAY?
- Build a Strong Network: Developing relationships is crucial. Attend industry events, engage on professional social media platforms like LinkedIn, and seek informational interviews with professionals. Networking not only opens doors to job opportunities but also provides insights into industry trends and expectations. Soft skills such as effective communication, empathy, and active listening are vital for creating and maintaining these connections.
- Emphasise Adaptability and Continuous Learning: The job market is dynamic, and industries are evolving rapidly. Demonstrating your ability to adapt and your commitment to lifelong learning can set you apart. This includes staying updated with industry trends, being open to new technologies, and showing a willingness to pivot when necessary. Soft skills like resilience and a growth mindset are crucial in navigating these changes.
- Cultivate Emotional Intelligence: Employers increasingly value emotional intelligence (EQ) alongside technical skills. Being aware of your own emotions and understanding others’ feelings can enhance teamwork, conflict resolution, and leadership abilities. Practice self-regulation, empathy, and effective communication to improve your EQ, which will make you a more attractive candidate in any job market.
WHICH INDUSTRY DO YOU THINK HAS THE MOST PROJECTED GROWTH OR IS MOST ‘FUTURE-PROOF’?
- Both the technology and healthcare sectors are expected to see substantial growth. In technology, fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, and data analytics are expanding rapidly. In healthcare, roles related to telemedicine, personalised medicine, and mental health support are becoming increasingly important. Both industries value soft skills; for instance, tech professionals need problem-solving skills and collaboration abilities, while healthcare workers must exhibit empathy, communication, and teamwork.
WHAT JOBS ARE THE MOST COMPETITIVE AT THE MOMENT?
- Jobs in technology, such as software developers, data scientists, and cybersecurity experts, are highly competitive due to high demand and the need for specialised skills. Similarly, positions in finance, like investment banking or financial analysis, can be fiercely contested. In these fields, while technical expertise is critical, soft skills such as teamwork, adaptability, and strong communication can significantly enhance your competitiveness. Employers look for candidates who can not only excel in their technical duties but also contribute positively to team dynamics and organisational culture.
HOW IMPORTANT DO YOU THINK SOFT SKILLS ARE CURRENTLY VS TECHNICAL SKILLS TO EMPLOYERS?
- While technical skills are essential, soft skills have become increasingly important. Employers seek candidates who can not only perform specific tasks but also integrate well into the company culture, communicate effectively, and navigate interpersonal dynamics. Skills like problem-solving, emotional intelligence, and leadership often differentiate good employees from great ones. A balance between technical expertise and strong soft skills is crucial; the former gets your foot in the door, while the latter can drive your success and career progression within an organisation.
WHAT DO YOU THINK IS THE BIGGEST THE BIGGEST MISCONCEPTION IS AROUND THE BEING CONSIDERED EMPLOYABLE?
- A common misconception is that having advanced technical skills is enough to secure a job. While technical competence is crucial, employers are increasingly looking for well-rounded candidates. Soft skills such as effective communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are just as important, if not more so, in many roles. Being employable means showcasing a combination of technical abilities and soft skills that make you a versatile and valuable team member.
THE OU IS OFFERING A FREE SET OF COURSES THAT HELP DEVELOP SOFT SKILLS, HOW IMPORTANT ARE THESE TO BECOMING CAREER-READY?
- Soft skills courses are incredibly beneficial for career readiness. They provide structured learning opportunities to develop essential interpersonal skills like communication, leadership, and emotional intelligence. These skills are often the differentiators in the job market, influencing hiring decisions and career advancement. By participating in these courses, you can enhance your ability to work collaboratively, manage stress, and lead effectively, all of which are crucial for success in any professional setting. Investing time in developing these skills can significantly improve your career prospects and overall effectiveness in the workplace.
The Open University (OU) is on hand to super charge you career with a new collection of free short courses on its OpenLearn platform, specifically aimed at helping young graduates enhance their CVs with essential soft skills that are desired by employers.
For more information about these free courses and to start learning, visit the OpenLearn website Career Ready Courses | OpenLearn – Open University
To find out more about the OU’s selection of undergraduate degrees that allow you to study flexibly around your life, visit www.open.ac.uk. The next deadline for application is 5th September for courses starting in October.
Author: The Open University
The Open University (OU) is on hand to super charge you career with a new collection of free short courses on its OpenLearn platform, specifically aimed at helping young graduates enhance their CVs with essential soft skills that are desired by employers. For more information about these free courses and to start learning, visit the OpenLearn website Career Ready Courses | OpenLearn – Open University To find out more about the OU’s selection of undergraduate degrees that allow you to study flexibly around your life, visit www.open.ac.uk.
