A very useful post by James Caan
Many job seekers wish they could unlock the secret formula to
winning over and influencing an employer’s hiring decision. But what is that
unique combination of skills and values that make candidates stand out from the
crowd?
Whilst each employer is looking for a specific set of skills
that match the necessary needs to perform a particular job, beyond this, there
are other skills, namely employability skills that are typically sought by
employers, regardless of size or industry.
This leads me onto a question I received this week from
Idrissa. She asked me what I thought are the best skills to develop when
looking for a job.
For me, Idrissa, getting the right candidate for a role means
identifying the person with the correct skills and qualities to fulfil the role
and contribute to an organisation’s success.
When I look at a candidate’s CV, I consider how they
demonstrate the value they could bring to the business. What are their unique
selling points – the skills that really make them stand out? If a candidate has
identified ways to give them self the competitive edge – whether that is
gaining industry insight, networking or studying to brush up on knowledge –
they have my attention.
In today’s candidate-saturated market; one where competition
is fierce, the employer is spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing
candidates. Employers can now afford to be more open with their requirements
and think strategically by looking at the potential value a candidate can bring
in the long term.
As such, there are critical employability skills that
employers across all sectors demand of job-seekers. Particularly if you’re
looking for a change of direction, transferable skills can help you to move
across job titles and into new industry sectors. These include things such as
communication, leadership, problem-solving and computer literacy skills.
Of equal importance to these skills are values, personality
traits and personal characteristics. These include traits such as honesty,
resilience, integrity, loyalty and passion. Are you a risk taker who is open to
new ideas? Will you keep going until the problem is solved and the job is done?
Employability skills and personal values are critical tools
and traits you need to succeed in any workplace. The good news is that most
people possess these skills to some extent. But if there are weaknesses, there
are many ways you can acquire, develop and improve them.
As a starting point, Idrissa, I suggest identifying the kind
of job you want to do. That way, you know the skills and experience that this
type of role requires and you can easily identify what skills are best to
develop in order to fill any gaps.
If you think back to past jobs, hobbies and other activities,
it’s likely you already have the required employability skills. For example,
you may have organised a charity event demonstrating your planning and
organisational skills. If you suggested changes to a work process, this
demonstrates your initiative and how you identify opportunities to achieve
goals.
If there are areas you do consider weaker, you could always
seeking training, professional development or obtaining a coach or mentor?
In today’s ever-changing market, it’s important to demonstrate
the talents that you bring to any organisation.
The value of employability skills increases everyday as hiring
manager’s struggle to identify the best from the hundreds of applicants
applying. Whilst qualifications and experience may be necessary, more and more
employers are now looking for your more human touch.
What skills do you think are most valued by employers? If you
have any tips, please share them with the group below.
Best,
James Caan
Chairman, webrecruit
