The Engineered Rider: What Employers Want in Job Candidates and How It Applies to Motorcyclists

A recent study by the National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER) highlights the transferable skills employers look for in potential hires. While the focus is on traditional industries, these findings have valuable implications for motorcyclists.

One key finding is the emphasis on problem-solving and decision-making. Employers want new recruits to be able to react to issues as they arise and take decisive action. For motorcyclists, this means being able to assess a situation quickly, think critically, and make sound decisions while riding. This skill is essential for navigating complex routes, dealing with mechanical issues on the road, or handling unexpected challenges in heavy traffic.

Effective communication is another crucial skill highlighted by the study. Employers look for candidates who can convey their ideas clearly, both written and verbally. Motorcyclists need to be able to articulate their riding style, share knowledge of local routes, or describe any issues with their bike. Good communication also extends to online communities, where riders must be able to engage with others in forums, social media groups, or online forums.

Collaboration is a vital transferable skill that employers value highly. This means being able to work effectively within a team and contribute to a shared goal. In the world of motorcycles, this might manifest as participating in group rides, sharing knowledge with fellow riders, or contributing to online communities. Riders must be able to build relationships with other enthusiasts, mechanics, and industry professionals.

The study’s emphasis on creativity and critical thinking can also be applied to motorcyclists. Employers seek candidates who can think outside the box and develop innovative solutions to problems. For riders, this might mean exploring new routes, experimenting with different riding styles, or developing creative ways to maintain their bike. Critical thinking is essential for assessing risk, making informed decisions about maintenance and repairs, and staying up-to-date with industry developments.

Riders must also be able to evaluate data and apply human judgment. With the increasing reliance on technology in modern motorcycles, they need to understand and interpret data from their bike’s systems, as well as navigate complex information online. This skill extends to evaluating sources of information, assessing credibility, and making informed decisions based on reliable data.

The NFER study highlights a pressing issue: many young people are not equipped with the transferable skills employers demand. In the world of motorcycles, this can lead to riders struggling to maintain their machines, navigate complex routes, or engage effectively with other enthusiasts. The motorcycling community must recognize that developing these skills is crucial for its own success and growth.

Employers in traditional industries may look to NFER’s findings as a guide for selecting top talent, but the implications extend far beyond the office cubicle. Motorcyclists can benefit from embracing the same transferable skills employers value: problem-solving, communication, collaboration, creativity, critical thinking, and data evaluation. By developing these skills, riders will become more effective and engaged members of the motorcycling community.

As the motorcycling industry continues to evolve, it’s essential that we prioritize the development of these transferable skills among our enthusiasts. By doing so, we’ll create a more resilient, creative, and connected community – one that can adapt to changing circumstances and propel itself forward with confidence.