In today’s dynamic job market, staying ahead means continuously honing skills that are in high demand.
Whether you’re just starting out, looking to switch careers, or looking to find a job that better suits your needs, understanding what employers are looking for is crucial.
Here’s a breakdown of the top five skills that employers look for and how you can learn and practice them.
1. Communication skills
Effective communication is key in many jobs.
This includes the ability to clearly express ideas, listen attentively, and interact positively with others.
In the workplace, good communication can mean the difference between a successful team project and one that falls apart because you and your team members weren’t on the same page.
It involves not only sharing your ideas but also actively listening to others and providing constructive feedback.
To improve these skills:
- Participate in workshops or seminars focused on communication.
- Practice active listening in your daily interactions.
- Join public speaking groups to boost your confidence and articulation.
To practice your communication skills daily:
- In your daily conversations, practice active listening. This means fully concentrating on what is being said rather than just passively ‘hearing’ the message of the speaker.
- Engage in discussions where you articulate your points clearly, whether it’s in a professional setting or a casual chat.
- Practice writing emails or reports, focusing on clarity and conciseness.
2. Technical savvy
As we move further into the digital age, basic technical skills are essential.
This doesn’t necessarily mean you need to be a tech wizard – just comfortable with common software and digital tools.
Technical skills that employers look for can range from being proficient in Microsoft Office Suite to understanding social media platforms or being familiar with using an email inbox.
In most office jobs, the ability to navigate various software is a key component of efficiency.
To improve your technological skills:
- Take online courses in basic computer literacy or specific software relevant to your field.
- Engage in self-learning through free online tutorials and resources.
To practice these skills daily:
- Spend time each day learning a new feature on software relevant to your field. For instance, mastering Excel formulas can save you a significant amount of time on data-related tasks, or becoming familiar with Microsoft Outlook to manage your emails could be beneficial.
- Follow online forums, blogs or social media pages that discuss technological trends in your industry.
3. Problem-solving abilities
Employers value individuals who can think on their feet and devise effective solutions. Problem-solving involves creativity, reasoning, and the ability to work under pressure.
Effective problem-solving can lead to more efficient processes and better decision-making.
For example, an employer will appreciate it if you can find a faster way to complete a task or resolve a conflict more effectively within your team.
To upskill your problem-solving:
- Volunteer for projects that challenge you to think outside of the box
- Practice with case studies relevant to your field, and imagine what you would have done to solve that problem yourself
- Join an online group or forum within your professional field, as they often discuss common challenges and solutions, which can provide valuable insights and new perspectives
To practice problem-solving every day:
- Play brain games or take part in activities that require strategic thinking.
- Seek out challenges in everyday tasks to strengthen your problem-solving muscles.
4. Teamwork and collaboration
Most jobs require some level of teamwork.
Being a good team player means you can work effectively with others, understand team dynamics, and contribute positively to achieving common goals.
In the workplace, successful teamwork can be seen in projects where team members with diverse skills and perspectives come together to achieve something like launching a new product, organising an event or getting through a particularly busy shift.
To upskill in teamwork and collaboration:
- Volunteer for team projects or group activities in your community.
- Reflect on your role in teams and seek feedback from peers to identify areas where you can improve.
To practice teamwork daily:
- Actively seek opportunities to be a part of group activities, even outside of work, like community events or sports.
- Practice empathy and understanding by considering the viewpoints and contributions of others in your team.
5. Adaptability and flexibility
In a fast-paced world, the ability to adapt to change and be flexible in your role is invaluable.
Being adaptable in the workplace might mean adjusting to a new role quickly, dealing with unexpected changes in a project, or learning new technologies as they become relevant in your industry.
To improve your adaptability and flexibility:
- Embrace change and seek out diverse experiences to build your adaptability.
- Practice mindfulness and stress management techniques to stay calm and composed in changing environments.
To practice being adaptable every day:
- Try to vary your daily routine occasionally. This could be as simple as taking a different route to work or trying out a new task.
- Stay informed about industry trends and anticipate changes that might affect your role.
Need a hand to upskill for your next job interview?
If you need extra support in upskilling to prepare for your next job interview, or to improve your performance at your current job, there are plenty of professional employment services that can help.
For example, if you’re living with a disability, injury or health condition and are looking to improve your employability skills, DES providers such as APM Disability Employment Services can help.
Remember, upskilling is a journey, and with the right tools and support, it’s a journey that can lead to fulfilling employment and personal growth.
