In surveys of local employers conducted at Salem and Keizer Chamber meetings, key themes arose regarding the essential skills and attributes they need in prospective employees.  These key behaviors and abilities were identified from among Oregon’s Career Related Learning Standards which are now required of all high school graduates in Oregon.

The most prominent needs for employers is that their workforce demonstrates the following, in ranked order:

• Reliable attendance
• Appropriate dress, appearance and hygiene for the job
• Responsibility for workplace decisions
• Ability to give and receive feedback
• Effective team skills
• Initiative in tasks needed to be completed
• Ability to identify problems

While all of the Career Related Learning Standards were valued by local employers, the above were higher priorities according the surveys.  For a full list of the Career Related Learning Standards click here.