Half of young people believe their education has not prepared them for the world of work, according to new research.
A survey of more than 1,000 people aged between 17 and 23 also highlighted complaints about a lack of opportunities to experience work.
The CBI, which published the study ahead of its annual conference in London, said it strongly believes that the earlier the interaction between business and students - whether through work experience, internships or school visits - the more likely the individual feels prepared for work.
The report said just over half of those surveyed have undertaken a work placement when at school or college and more than one fifth had visits from businesses to their school.
John Allan, CBI president, said: “At best, social mobility is at a standstill in this country which is a challenge to Parliament, business and wider society.
“It’s disturbing to find that around half of young people feel their education has not prepared them for the world of work, at a time of great economic uncertainty and technological change.
“Teachers, schools and colleges deserve better support and business must play its part.
“Many young people fear buying a house will forever be out of reach, believe the prospects of a well-funded pension are dwindling and simply don’t see enough good jobs in their area. All of this, just as they try to make their first tentative career steps.
“The Government’s Industrial Strategy launch was almost one year ago, and while progress has been made in parts it’s clear that further impetus is needed.
“It’s time to turn warm words on Industrial Strategy into real action across our regions to super-charge local economies.
“While young people are often tarred with being so very different to previous generations, actually they just want what many of us do: a work-life balance, fair pay and a few steady and rewarding jobs through their career.”
The report said young people place work-life balance and work culture alongside the length of commute and job security as the most important factors when choosing a company to work for.
