Skills Sought by Employers

Employers are looking for a strong educational background that develops:

  • Analytical skills (the ability to analyze facts and put problems into context)
  • Communication skills (both oral and written)
  • Ability to think critically
  • Problem-solving skills

A degree teaches you these skills

"A liberal arts education doesn't prepare you for something — it prepares you for everything."
- Peter Godsoe, former Chancellor of Western

The Conference Board of Canada defines employability skills as:

  1. Fundamental skills including communicating, managing information, using numbers, thinking and solving programs
  2. Personal management skills including demonstrating positive attitudes and behaviours, being responsible, being adaptable, learning continuously, working safely
  3. Teamwork skills including working with others, participating in projects and tasks.
Employers will have a good idea of the technical skills you have developed by looking at your educational background and past work experience.

Companion Handout

Western provides the best student experience among Canada's leading research-intensive universities.