Have you ever spent a minute or two with job seekers readying for an interview? Well, I have, and the silent cross-checking they do behind the “great door” is like this; “well-ironed and carefully chosen outfit” – check, “detailed CV” – check, “personal confidence and courtesy”- shaky but check, and in some extreme instances, “crisp scented perfume, backed by a good oral refresher” – check.
A few questions also come up though, “What are the keys to unlocking the secret formula that wins the hearts of employers?” “What on earth is the unique combination of skills that would make employers drool with exhilaration?”
All an employer seeks is a job-seeker, who has the perfect blend of skills that match a specific job at hand. Beyond these specific technical skills and abilities, there are some generic skills which appeal to any job universally and which every job seeker must have, at all cost. The bright side to knowing these skills is that it will help many a job seeker to tailor his/her job-search communication – resume, cover letter, and interview language – to showcase how well his/her background aligns with common employer requirements. These skills are in high demand and hence, every job seeker should make its acquisition a topmost priority. Eight of these skills, which are as important as every other skill, are discussed as follows:
Communications Skills (listening, verbal, written)
By far, the one skill mentioned most often by employers is the ability to listen, write, and speak effectively. An individuals’ ability to effectively communicate in any establishment is critical to his/her advancement and that of the business. Many job seekers miss out on glorious job opportunities because they lack the necessary communication ability to back their knowledge and experience. 9 Article
Teamwork Because so many jobs involve working in one or more work-groups, one must have the ability to work with others in a professional manner whilst attempting to achieve a common goal. Meeting targets as well as collectively solving a problem is part of many job descriptions. The job seeker who lacks this ability, due to one or two temperamental reasons, would inevitably be farther away from that dream job.
Initiative and Enterprise
This involves being able to see innovative ways of doing things and seizing opportunities. It is your ability to translate ideas into action and initiate solutions to everyday problems. Daring employees are the fancy of many employers.
Information Technology
Nearly ninety percent of jobs nowadays require a certain information technology input, hence, the need for an individual to be equipped with basic IT knowledge and ability.
Problem Solving
The ability to find solutions to problems using one’s creativity, reasoning, and past experiences along with the available information and resources is an enviable trait that most employers seek in potential employees. No one would like to employ someone who only gloats in the success of the rm but coils when problems show up.
Dedication and Loyalty
Employers seek job-seekers who love what they do and will keep at it until they solve the problem and get the job done. Employers also want employees who will have a strong devotion to the company; even at times when the company is not necessarily loyal to its employees.
Positive Attitude and Self-Motivation The job-seekers who get hired and the employees who get promoted are the ones with drive and passion and who demonstrate this enthusiasm through their words and actions, so is the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Willingness to Learn
No matter your age or level of experience, you should always be willing to learn a new skill or technique. Job roles are constantly changing and evolving, and you must show an openness to grow and learn. Sadly, most people find it hard adjusting to change and hence struggle to learn new ways of doing things.
Are you a job seeker or are you planning to be one? Regardless of your answer, you need these skills and more, to land that job, or secure that promotion. So next time you under take a skills check, be sure you have these skills on your list; else, well, you might have to get them, somehow.
by Collins Senyemi
