It’s nothing new – in fact, it’s been patently true since the onset of the global economic crisis: The world in general and the world of business in particular have become more dynamic, uncertain and complex, and are constantly evolving into something structurally different altogether. For businesses to remain competitive under these circumstances, they increasingly need employees who are capable of and willing to confront the new and different on their own. Demographic trends beg the question: how can businesses play a role in securing and developing the innovative capacity of their employees? The Steinbeis Competence Forum’s Fifth Annual Stuttgart Competence Day in November examined this issue in depth.

As the economy grows more and more dynamic every day, personal résumés will also become more dynamic and colorful in the future: typically, resumes will contain periods of volunteer work on a project, a permanent position, and maybe partial or complete self employment. As things develop this way, people will need the ability and mindset to adjust to and consider new positions, companies, employment conditions and even careers. Not just despite, but also specifically because of the Bologna Process, one issue does still arise, however: What can universities do to help students develop the skills and even the courage they need to cope with the situation on the labor market?

“Employability” means being able and willing to prepare oneself for the world of tomorrow, and it is becoming a crucial factor in both entrepreneurial and personal success. The Fifth Annual Stuttgart Competence Day brought this success factor center-stage. The symposium focused on the extent to which businesses and universities have embraced the concept of employability. Speakers from the fields of science and industry discussed different perspectives related to this fascinating topic.

The next Stuttgart Competence Day will take place on 6 December 2013.