Skills Employers Look For
- Communication- both written and verbal communication skills are possibly of the utmost importance in the workplace and in any other setting for that matter. It is important that you are able to communicate clearly and effectively. Communication is both non-verbal and verbal.
- Self-Management- is your ability to control your feelings, emotions, and activities. Self-management is another skill that is vital in all aspects of life especially work and education. Self-management involve other managements i.e stress management, organization and time management.
- Teamwork - I know we have all heard the phrase, "Two heads are better than one". Well, diversity of thought and perspective encourages innovation, therefore teamwork is constantly promoted in education and work. The ability to work with others is not a given it is something that you may need to work on. Teamwork is where you can have your ideas challenged and also challenge others all for the purpose of creating better.
- Adaptability - refers to the ability of a person to change actions, course or approach to doing things in order to suit new situations. Things are always changing and it is important that you are able to move with those changes. The best mindset is to allow change to energize you. More on Adaptability
- Decision Making- Decision making is a skill that when mastered will set you apart from the crowd. You probably have made decisions all your life but the older you get the more complex the decisions. This is a major skill employers look for. Click here for decision making activities.
- Problem Solving - It is important that an employers knows that you have the ability to handle difficult or unexpected situations in the workplace. Problem-solving skills help you determine the sources of a problem and find an effective solutions. There are many other related skills that contribute to the ability of problems solving including.
- Active Listening
- Analysis
- Research
- Creativity
- Communication
- Dependability
- Decision making
- Team-building More on Problem-solving
- Conflict Resolution - conflict arises from differences, both large and small. It occurs whenever people disagree over their values, motivations, perceptions, ideas, or desires. Sometimes these differences appear trivial, but when a conflict triggers strong feelings, a deep personal need is often at the core of the problem. Being able to get to the root of that problem and resolve issues of conflict is a valuable skill to employers.
- Leadership- the ability to lead effectively relies on a number of key skills, but also different leaders can have very different characteristics and styles. As a student you should take on leadership roles in groups and organizations that you are a part of. Also make sure you have an mentor that can offer you feedback and constructive criticism. Skills good leaders need are:
- Strategic Thinking
- Planning & Delivery
- People Management
- Change Management
- Communication
- Persuasion & Influence
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This video series developed by the U.S. Department of Labor provides modular and engaging information on six keys areas communication, enthusiasm/attitude, teamwork, networking, problem solving/critical thinking, and professionalism.