Job Skills That Are in Demand
Job Skills That Make You Marketable
You go to a job interview, and the interviewer asks, “What sets you apart from the other people we have applying for this job?” You should never be without an answer to this question, since it's so popular amongst interviewers. The question is trying to decide what qualifies as a skill that is highly attractive to employers. You should try to develop a skill that will answer the question, while still being applicable to the position. Typically, the skills that you cite are ones that are “soft” - things that fall into communication and personality.
For example, you may have “good computer skills”, but what does that mean? Perhaps you can create dynamite presentations. Or, maybe you use Photoshop on your off time, but are really excellent at it. Or, maybe you are a whiz at Excel due to the summer you spent working as a bookkeeper. Regardless of what it is that you can do, if you're good at it, highlight it. Other software packages that are not as heavily used, such as Visio, may prompt an interviewer to ask what it is. This is a perfect opportunity to showcase that not only are you computer literate, but you are well rounded as well.
Computer Certification Program Helps
Computer certifications are one way that an IT professional can make themselves stand out. While a degree is sometimes required for an IT position, much of the emerging technology hasn't filtered down into the college curriculum yet. Also, some certifications are very in depth and require real dedication over years of work to master what's going to be on the exam. Everything from an A+ Certification to the CCIE looks great. If you're going for positions in IT, pick your niche, and go for it. You won't be sad that you did.
Useful Second Language
Learning a second language is pretty tough, especially if you didn't grow up speaking multiple languages. Showcasing this on your resume will often pique an employer's interest because it shows a high level of dedication to claim fluency in both English and Japanese. Being bilingual or even trilingual opens an array of jobs in the international sector, as well as opening new avenues.
Effective Communication Work
While many people don't think of it, being an effective communicator is a learned skill. We are not innately born with the ability to communicate well, and learning these skills takes time and practice. There are a number of ways for you to learn how. Taking a class in communications can be a huge benefit to you, and give you a concrete example of how you have bettered yourself.
Measuring Soft Skills
One of the catches of soft skills is that it is often difficult to demonstrate that you have them, even after having taken a class. Be sure that if you take the time and money to put it on paper, you also practice it in your everyday life. Employers love to see their instincts about an interviewee be correct, so don't give them a reason to regret hiring you.
For more information about job interviews and career development please check out our careers advice section on GKBusiness.
