What are the most desirable skills employers look for in high school level employees?

Hey there, I'm a junior exploring job possibilities right now. Can anybody shed some light on what kind of skills we should acquire or develop at the high school level that would make us more desirable as employees? Would appreciate any insight!

Indeed, there are several skills that employers tend to look for in high school-level employees. These can be broadly classified into two categories - hard skills and soft skills.

Hard skills are profession or job-specific skills, whereas soft skills are personal attributes or interpersonal skills that can be used universally across various jobs. These skills include critical thinking, problem-solving, adaptability, and time management.

On the hard skills side, basic computer literacy is always a plus. This includes familiarity with word processing and spreadsheet software, like Microsoft Word and Excel. In some roles, more specialized computer skills could be beneficial such as graphic design, social media management, or programming. If you're considering jobs in the customer service field, proficiency in a second language can also be advantageous.

For soft skills, you might want to focus on communication, both written and verbal. Employers often seek out individuals who can effectively disseminate information, engage in productive conversations, and clearly express their ideas. Customer service skills can also be particularly valuable. Similarly, time management skills are often sought after — the ability to organize and prioritize tasks is crucial in most, if not all, roles.

Teamwork and collaboration abilities are also frequently desired within the workplace. Many jobs require or prefer applicants who can work well in a team setting, collaborate on projects, and exhibit good interpersonal skills.

Leadership potential can give you an edge as well. If you've held a leadership position in a club, team, or organization at school, that's definitely something you could highlight to a potential employer.

Lastly, don't forget about the importance of a positive attitude and willingness to learn. Employers often value adaptability and a passion for continuous learning - traits that suggest you'll adjust to your new role and be proactive in enhancing your skill set.

Remember that each job may require a different mix of skills and that your personal strengths will also play a role. I recommend doing some research into the specific roles you're interested in to get a sense of the most relevant skills for your desired direction.