Managers report young people lacking practical work skills

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, September 3, 2026

A survey of 1,100 managers found that many young employees lack basic practical skills such as punctuality and effective workplace communication. This skills gap highlights a disconnect between education and job readiness, posing challenges for employers and prompting calls for improved preparation of young workers.

A recent survey of 1,100 managers indicates that many young people are entering the workforce without essential practical skills, raising concerns about the readiness of new employees. Approximately half of the managers reported encountering young workers who lacked basic understanding of punctuality and appropriate communication in the workplace.

Petra Wilton, director of policy at the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), highlighted the gap between educational outcomes and job requirements. She noted that four in 10 managers who recruit young people have experienced a disconnect between the skills acquired through education and those needed for practical work situations.

The findings suggest that despite formal education, young individuals may still face challenges adapting to workplace expectations, particularly in areas critical to professional conduct and efficiency. This gap may have implications for employers seeking to integrate new staff effectively and for educators aiming to better prepare students for the job market.

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