AGCAS Biennial Conference 2011 Student Transition and Professional Identity Jan Perrett, University of Nottingham Hannah Woolley, University of Nottingham Academic Year:2001/12 AGCAS Biennial

Professional Behaviour 9/14/2018 Event Name and Venue

Attributes of professionalism Excellence Competence Ethics Behaviour Work morale Motivation Respect Attitude Character

Definitions of work ethic The work ethic is a cultural norm that advocates being personally accountable and responsible for the work that one does and is based on a belief that work has intrinsic value It assumes certain traits – loyalty, honesty, trustworthiness, dependability, reliability, initiative, self-discipline and self-responsibility It also encompasses appearance, attitude, productivity, organisation, communication, cooperation, team work and respect

Definition of Transition A transition is: personal awareness of a discontinuity in one’s life requiring new behavioural responses

Why is there a concern about professionalism in student transition to work? Employer perceptions: Research has shown that compared with the workforce as a whole, graduates lack Resilience, especially in handling criticism and set backs Confidence in group situations and with senior managers Communication skills Taking things in their stride and being calm and relaxed ‘Our research illustrates that universities could do much more to help graduates prepare for the world of work. They enter the workplace with high expectations, but bring very few of the most essential soft skills’ (Talent Q)

Why is there a concern about professionalism in student transition to work? Generation Y wants: Motivational leadership To learn through coaching and mentoring Opportunities for learning and developing Flexibility On-going development and support Facilitated and experiential learning Face-to-face learning New research from the Institute of Leadership & Management reveals that 57% new graduate recruits plan to leave their current role within 2 years, with 40% hoping to find a new job within the year. Such high levels of attrition should not be simply accepted by employers.

So what can we do to prepare our students for transition to work roles? 9/14/2018 Event Name and Venue

The American way