Effective behaviours at work crucial for workplace success
The workplace environment is constantly evolving along with the technology, social and demographic aspects impacting on it. The 21st Century is dominated by one constant – change. Previously accepted attitudes and behaviours at work are no longer effective. Skills that enable workers to hit the ground running coupled with essential behavioural attitudes are now in high demand.
The International Labour Organisation (ILO) was mandated at the International Labour Conference as far back as 2005 to address the issues of: employability, education, training and skills as well as the school-to-work transition. Governments were urged to focus on policies that strengthen the link between education and training systems and the world of work in order to address the mismatch between educational outcomes and labour market requirements.
Findings of an independently conducted 2009 study commissioned by Edexcel on Effective Education for Employment (EEE), indicated a significant disconnect between academic achievements and employer expectations in the workplace. It was found that there was a disconnect relating to skills as well as behaviours in the workplace.
“Following the findings of the EEE study it became clear to Edexcel that we had to develop a set of qualifications that would help bridge the gap between formal education outcomes and what was expected in the workplace,” comments Jonathan McGill, Edexcel Southern Africa Development Manager.
The BTEC Effective Behaviours for Work (EBW) is a suite of professional qualifications designed to develop key skills and associated behaviours that will allow employees and prospective employees to contribute more effectively in the workplace.
Specific behaviours are becoming increasingly necessary to work effectively as a member of a team, to adapt to changing circumstances, to manage stress, and to form constructive relationships. By assessing and developing these key behaviours EBW helps employees become more effective in their roles, as well as benefiting employers by enabling them to get the most out of their employees through increased efficiency and productivity.
There are many benefits of an EBW qualification for both employees of all levels and for employers too. They include:
For employees
The BTEC EBW qualification provides the opportunity to develop the essential skills, attitudes and behaviours required to reach their full potential. EBW graduates gain an edge that differentiates them from the pack by displaying these key behaviours required by employers. It will increase their employability and help build a solid foundation for success in today’s competitive environment. Increased awareness of their own behaviour and that of those around them, gives employees more control over their actions and reactions, resulting in a more mindful and contemplative approach to challenging situations and workplace obstacles.
For employers
The BTEC EBW means improved employee efficiency, productivity and positivity. Employees are more engaged and encouraged when they see the results of the application of these skills and behaviours, creating self-motivating employees who build healthier work relationships.
EBW gives employers an indication of an employee’s development needs, and also helps to develop those who are earmarked for promotion or a new role.
The qualification is comprehensive and flexible and allows for tailor-made solutions. It also caters to the needs of current students to prepare them for their introduction to the workplace and gives educators the opportunity to offer qualifications which produce graduates that are work-ready.
“The BTEC EBW suite of qualifications can be tailor-made to fit a company’s specific requirements and is designed to address the needs of South Africa’s workforce thereby strengthening our country’s skills pool,” adds McGill.
This article was first published on June 21 2012