Author identifier (ORCID)
Ros Sambell: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8799-3441
Abstract
The Relational Employability Matrix (REM) is a practical tool for self-assessment and planning, grounded in the Relational Employability Framework (REF). The REF was developed and tested by Cook through a body of research that includes a narrative review, doctoral thesis, and applied studies (Cook, 2022; Cook, 2023a; Cook, 2023b; Cook, Doherty, & Wallace, 2024; Cook & Sambell, 2025). It brings together three interconnected dimensions of relational employability: Foundational Career Development and Identities, Interactions with Others, and Contributions to Local and Global Challenges. The REF works as a reflective, practice-focused guide for building these capabilities over time. The REM takes these principles and turns them into 30 specific skills, each with five development stages. This structure gives users a clear view of their current capabilities and the steps they can take to grow. At its heart is a structured, guided self-reflection process, designed to help individuals identify strengths, recognise development areas, and map practical next steps. It also creates a way to track progress over time, and for organisations, a means to see patterns and plan targeted support. Because of its flexibility, the REM can be adapted to many settings, from workplaces and community organisations to universities and cross-sector projects. Staff might use it to spot opportunities for growth in collaboration, cultural competence, or systems thinking, helping leaders to design tailored professional development. In education, it can guide reflective learning and career planning. In community contexts, it can help volunteers and leaders build their skills with purpose. The REM responds directly to the challenges of contemporary professional life. It recognises the need for adaptability, ethical leadership, cultural intelligence, and relational capabilities that align with global citizenship and sustainability. These are increasingly essential in higher education, where graduates need to navigate complexity, work across diverse perspectives, and contribute to solutions that are both systemic and sustainable. By putting the REF into a practical, measurable, and action-focused format, the REM supports the development of the skills and mindsets needed to work well with others, address complex challenges, and create positive, lasting change that strengthens the wellbeing of people, communities, and the natural environment.
Document Type
Other
School
School of Medical and Health Sciences, Nutrition and Health Innovation Research Institute
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Publisher
Edith Cowan University
Identifier
10.25958/r27r-5q27