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What skills do employers want? Moreover, how do you assure that you possess them? This article provides answers to both. You’re guaranteed to be a valuable commodity wherever you go. Therefore, keep reading so you don’t get overlooked.
What Employers Want
- Communication Skills
Read any job announcement and you’ll note that good communication skills are always a qualifier. Please note that communication covers a lot of territory (verbal, written, and interpersonal).
- Problem Solving Skills
Like communication skills, problem solving skills are highly desirable. Simply put, employers like people who can think and solve problems. You will note that people who solve more complex problems earn significantly more money.
- Technical Skills
Do you possess basic computer skills? Of course, more advanced skills are required for specific positions like instructional design or information technology.
- Listening Skills
How good are your listening skills? Can you follow directions or does someone have to tell you the same things ten times? Although many claim to possess this asset, few reign in this area. I’ve seen people who have laser like focus. They give their undivided attention if you’re speaking, and they don’t interrupt.
- People Skills
You won’t be working on an island by yourself. Thus, the ability to interact and get along with others (co-workers, customers, supervisors, etc.) rates high with prospective employers.
- Teamwork Skills
Can you work well with others? Your talents don’t matter, if you cause friction and dissention.
- Time Management Skills
Likewise, do you respect time? Contrary to what most people think, time is critical. With that said, can you be counted on to show up on time? What’s more, will you show up prepared?
How to Gain What Employers Want
- Be Sure You Know What They Want.
Although some of the basics were listed above, read job postings online to discover what employers require. You can’t take steps to obtain what you don’t know. Investigate the preferred abilities in your area of expertise.
- Assess Where You Stand.
This tip goes back to the importance of knowing thyself. Hence, do an honest self-examination to determine where you stand. Can you work well with others? Do you respect time and make being punctual a top priority? Regarding people skills, are you friendly or unapproachable? Do you possess basic technical skills? Can you maneuver the Internet? How would you rate your communication skills? Good? Excellent? Outstanding. If presented a problem what do you do?
Request feedback from those who know you like supervisors, mentors, pastors, instructors, etc. Note the strengths and weaknesses.
- Establish Goals.
Okay. You know what employers want, and you’ve assessed your skills. Now what? Make a commitment to acquire the competencies by establishing SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely)goals. Otherwise, no one will take you seriously. Most important, goals drive you to go full steam ahead.
- Seek Growth Opportunities.
If you’re already employed, communicate your goals to your supervisor. Speak up. Let him or her know your aspirations. As a result of taking on new tasks or special projects, you increase your skills. In addition, explore apprenticeships, internships, and volunteer work. No time for excuses: opportunities surround you.
- Embrace Professional Development.
Training isn’t a dirty word. In fact, professional development sharpens skills and increases your knowledge base. For that purpose, sign up for training. Enroll in courses. Read books. Regarding technical skills, visit your local library where free classes are offered on a variety of topics.
- Never Give Up.
Where there’s a will there’s a way. So, never give up.
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