Teenagers look on bright side

Teenagers are increasingly confident about their job prospects despite the gloomy economic outlook, research revealed yesterday.

A survey commissioned by the Diploma Development Partnerships (DDP) found the majority of 14 to 19-year-olds recognised grades, skills, their personality and work experience were all critical to getting a good job but employability skills were the single most important factor in the job market.

Some 76 per cent of those questioned said they knew what was needed to land the job they wanted and 80 per cent said they saw themselves earning as much or more money than their parents when they are the same age.

Employers wanting to boost the popularity of their industry among the future workforce needed to follow the example set by the public sector, the DDP said.

The research reveals that direct contact with teenagers can result in an increase in popularity for the sector.

The public sector tops the polls with 46 per cent of respondents wanting to work in the industry. It also topped the list of employers visiting schools and colleges.

Retail, hospitality and leisure were close contenders for both visits and popularity as a career choice.

Clive Jones CBE, DDP Chair for the Creative and Media Diploma and Chairman of GMTV, said: "I am glad young people are engaging with the reality of the job market and through pragmatism are showing intelligence and initiative in their quest for employment.

"We have designed the new Diplomas to encourage exactly the attributes that employers are looking for, and I am confident that the future workforce will be prepared to tackle any obstacles they encounter with a positive attitude."

Ruth Spellman OBE, Chief Executive of the Chartered Management Institute and Employer Champion said: "The determination shown by young people in what is undoubtedly the toughest job market they have faced is a testament to their determination to succeed.

"They are clearly up for the challenge and are keen to build transferable skills that will make them employable now and in the future.

"The onus, though, is on employers to unlock this pool of hidden talent because failure to do so will only prolong the difficulties we currently face."