Question

How do employability skills differ from academic and technical skills?

Answer 1

There are differences between employability, academic and technical skills.  

Academic skills refer to the studies a candidate must have to perform a job. For example, to work as a teacher candidate must have a teaching degree or being enrolled in a teaching course to apply for the position.  

Technical skills refer to the technical knowledge a candidate must have to perform a job. For example, a translator must have knowledge about computers and software as they need not only the academic skills but also the use of specific translation software to upload a translation.

Employability skills refer to the essential capabilities a candidate must have to perform a job efficiently. These are general skills that are not directly related to job-specific functions. Among the most important employability skills are: internal and external communication, ability to work under pressure, team work, negotiation and interpersonal skills.  All these skills will make a candidate more employable and competitive in the job market.