From what I’ve seen, I think it is something far more basic— like showing up for work when scheduled and working until the job is done.
I cannot fathom that these companies, in these economic times, are giving priority to whether or not their workers know how to use a fork properly or how to correctly set up drinking glasses and drinking without making too much noise. Though the total lack of ability to put together a coherent sentence is for sure a major issue.
Millennials in the Workplace Training Video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sz0o9clVQu8
He asked many employers there what they most wanted in an employee. The answer by all he talked with to every question, no matter how asked, was: some one who shows up.
One firm was asked: what sort of welding experience was needed and they answered: none, just some one who will show up - we will train to start at $24 an hour with a signing bonus.
Welders are still in short supply here.
Show up for your shifts - sober - and don’t steal. How hard is that?
According to my son and other people I know working retail, it’s too hard for a substantial proportion of the population.