The gap in employability perceptions between managers and employees

Abstract

Previous studies have shown that employability skills perceptions play a significant role in applicants’ behaviour towards job search and the recruitment and selection process. In addition, research has shown that employers tend to predetermine the employability skills in request, for a job position, based on job description and selection criteria. The present study aims to explore the gap between applicants’ and employers’ perceptions on employability skills and suggest ways to close this gap. Skills and competencies such as communication, flexibility, positive attitude, professionalism, team working, interpersonal relations, responsibility and work ethic, are explored as determinants of an applicant’s overall employability. Demographical factors affecting these perceptions, are also taken into consideration for the analysis.