In today’s competitive business world, the demand for work experience and skills is high. As a result, businesses find it hard to fill their positions and, at the same time, employees to find work. But you must be wondering, how is it possible for this to happen when both sides want essentially the same thing? The reasons behind why is this happening are various, but it’s irrelevant to today’s topic. This article is about how work-based learning benefits both businesses and employees. Specifically, it will analyze the effects of work-based learning initiatives on employment.

Work-Based Learning Benefits to Employees

In work-based learning programs, both young people and adults can get the experience and skills they need for career success—work-based learning benefits all who participate in such programs, especially those with a disadvantaged background.

For example, this type of learning is useful for students from low-income families. Usually, they have little to no access to educational opportunities and professional networks. But what are the specific work-based learning benefits that they gain?

1. Gain work experience. Work-based learning programs allow the participants to develop skills and capabilities. There are professional and technical skills sought by employers that are difficult to acquire in the classroom.
2. Get Industry insights. Many students think that they want to go down a particular professional path. But, without having prior experience in the field, it is risky to commit. So, it is advised for students to do an internship first in their interest to see if they like it.
3. Find a permanent job. Many internships will boost the value of your resume, which will help you find a full-time job. If you wish to create a thumb-stopping resume that catches the recruiter’s attention, you can use the resume maker online service that comes with stunning templates.

Work Based Learning Benefits to Employers

In the same manner, work-based learning allows employers to find the workforce they need in two ways. First, the employer can co-design a work-based learning program with a school. To continue, employers are looking for specific skills that are hard to develop in the classroom. However, with specific curriculum changes, the employer can access a large pool of candidates with the desired skills.

Secondly, employers with work-based learning programs create a skilled workforce tailored to their needs. Work-based learners develop both generic professional skills, but also the skills sought by the employer. Here’s how work-based learning benefits employers:

1. Create a talent pull. Every business has some positions that are harder to fill than others. Instead of waiting for the proper talent to come knocking at their door, work-based learning allows creating their pool of talents. By doing so, they will have access to various resumes and a pool of skills that can cover their needs.
2. Be a great place to work. Employees view work-based learning initiatives as something positive. As a result, employee turnover decreases because they feel that their employer values them and care for their professional development.
3. Ensure business prosperity. The creation of a skilled workforce has a tremendous impact on the regional economy. A skilled workforce attracts more business investments, reduces unemployment, and boosts consumer spending.

Conclusions

There are a lot of reasons behind unemployment. However, when it comes to unemployment due to the lack of talents or skills mismatch, communication is essential. With better communication between businesses and schools, students can better prepare to transition to the work environment. Work-based learning benefits both employers and employees and can play a crucial role in unemployment reduction and economic growth.