Most Desirable Skills Employers Look for in High School-Level Employees

Hey guys, I'm a junior and I'm ready to start my first part-time job. I've been wondering, what are the most desirable skills that employers typically look for in high school-level employees? Additionally, are there any specific traits or experiences that could give me an edge in job applications? Thanks in advance for any advice!

Hello! It's great that you're seeking advice on how best to make your job applications shine as a high school student.

When hiring high school students, employers not only look at hard skills but also place a substantial weight on soft skills. The hard skills will undoubtedly depend on the job, but the soft skills often transfer across various jobs and industries.

1. Reliability: Can you be counted on to show up for your shifts on time and perform your tasks to the best of your ability?

2. Communication Skills: Employers look for employees who can express themselves clearly, listen effectively, and work well in a team context.

3. Problem-solving Skills: This could be defined as being able to come up with efficient solutions to unexpected challenges that arise on the job.

4. Eagerness to Learn: Employers like employees who are open and enthusiastic about learning new things. This comes in handy because it shows your adaptability and willingness to improve.

Apart from these widely sought-after skills, here are a few additional things you can consider to give your application an edge:

1. Extracurriculars: If you have extracurriculars that align with the job you're applying for, be sure to include them. For instance, if you're applying to a local bakery and you're part of the school's culinary club, that's a perfect match.

2. Volunteer Work: If you're involved in any community service, definitely mention it. It shows you're tasks driven and have experience in working in a real-world environment.

3. Leadership roles: Whether it's being a team captain, student council member, or a club president, leadership roles depict your ability to manage responsibilities and lead a team.

While it's important to have solid skills and experiences, remember, employers understand that you are still in school and majority won't expect you to have a vast wealth of experiences or specific skills. Show your willingness to learn, responsibility, and more importantly, a positive attitude. That will take you a long way. Good luck in your job search!