'Employability is about attitude'

As the controversial debate around the standard of education in South Africa rages on, matric remains a top priority for most business owners when it comes to employing staff. More than that, they are not only looking at people who have the necessary qualifications, but for those who are prepared to go the extra mile, learn on the job and who can show that they have an excellent work ethic. According to Sue Wood, operations director of Cargocare, there is a definite preference for a matric certificate. “And proficiency in English plays a very important role as it is the language of business. It is about quality to our customers and we look at employing people who can represent the company, no matter in what capacity, well.” While experience continues to be critical in a skills-hungry market, Kim Botti, director at recruitment agency Lee Botti & Associates, says many companies, and in particular the bigger corporates, have a minimum requirement of matric and are strict in adhering to this. Wood said they had in the past sent employees back to redo matric to get the required skills levels and to up grades ahead of vocational training as it was found to be lacking. Janine Myburgh, president of the Cape Chamber of Commerce, said businesses were f looded with applications and were looking for specific attributes and skills. It is therefore important not only that job seekers ensure they have the best possible results, but also gain the necessary tertiary education and experience. “Tertiary education is exceptionally important, whether it is through university or through an FET college," she said.