Essential Skills are not technical skills but rather the skills people use to carry out a wide variety of everyday life and occupational tasks. For example, writing skills are required in a broad range of occupations. The complexity and frequency of writing varies, of course.
Some workers fill out simple forms every day, while others write daily or monthly reports.
Workers must have Essential Skills in order to do their work. For example, repair persons may have to read and understand written work orders before they can do the repairs. Workers who have Essential Skills at the levels required for their desired occupations will have enhanced employability. However, other factors such as honesty, persistence and a positive attitude to change also enhance employability. The descriptions of Essential Skills in this database consider the full range of use of these skills, from basic to complex.