In recent years, young people in the UK have been painted in a negative light, with  criticisms of their supposed lack of work ethic, their constant presence on social media, or perceived disinterest in traditional values. 

We must remember the significant challenges that young people have had to face in an increasingly complex world.

The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have been long-lasting, coming into their lives at a crucial time in their development, disrupting their exams, mental health and career prospects.

It’s very easy for the older generation to dismiss the impact of social media as merely a distraction, but it has become an integral part of how young people communicate and interact.

The constant comparison to others, the pressures of maintaining an online presence and the potential for cyberbullying has taken a toll on many young people’s self-esteem and mental well-being.

St Albans District Chamber of Commerce CEO Cheryl Luzet (Image: Cheryl Luzet)Latest unemployment figures show that the 18 to 21 age group is most likely to be out of work - 4.4 per cent of 18 to 21-year-olds living in St Albans are unemployed, compared to 5.5 per cent in Great Britain as a whole.

Once they enter the working world, they must also face the realities of the cost of living crisis and the impossibility of buying a home without help, making planning for the future feel like a fruitless task. 

I have noticed in my own business that young people are struggling to communicate in a way that the older generations expect.

They have little experience answering the telephone, and need support to understand the appropriate way to address clients (we don’t need to end important emails with smiley emojis and cheery, unnecessary exclamation marks).

However, many of the young people who work for me are brave and creative and really fun to be around, so we need to think of ways that we can offer support to help them to fit into the work environment.  

Learning to communicate effectively is one of the goals of the Young Chamber, part of the St Albans District Chamber of Commerce.

Despite what its name may suggest, this isn’t just for those who consider themselves young; it’s for anyone who is new to networking and wants to develop their skills in this area. The idea is to help newbies develop crucial business skills, expand their professional networks, and gain confidence.

The Young Chamber provides structured opportunities to practise networking in a safe, welcoming and friendly space.

They can connect with their peers, learn how to confidently describe what they do, develop their elevator pitch, and build contacts.

The events vary from professional training workshops on topics such as public speaking to more social events, such as rum tasting or the upcoming Halloween party. 

We see the Young Chamber as the future Chamber of Commerce.

With its focus on networking, confidence building, and real-world experience it offers vital support to local businesses, helping them to train the next generation.