At 3.8%, the unemployment rate in the UK is relatively low and notwithstanding that, job seekers want the assurance that they will not only get jobs quickly but also that they will be well-compensated.
Expectations aside, most professionals soon find out that developing and honing other skills outside of their academic profiles can give them a competitive edge over their peers.
Here is a look at some of the top skills that can make you more marketable today.
1. Problem Solving
This goes hand in hand with analytical thinking and is a useful skill in the workplace.
People who are problem solvers are able to troubleshoot and resolve issues independently and in a timely manner.
One way to demonstrate this during an interview is by highlighting a problem you came across in your personal life or at a workplace and the solutions you applied.
2. Creativity
Creativity is essential as it assures your employer that you will come up with fresh, innovative ways of resolving issues and getting things done.
Because there is no one way of doing things, corporations are increasingly looking for people that can bring in new angles and perspectives on daily operations and challenges in the corporate world.
3. Teamwork
Some careers require you to work independently. Nonetheless, even these call for some collaborative effort at some point.
This is attributable to the fact that every role connects to another.
Employees that work well with others advance cohesion and synergy within the various teams, which makes it easier to achieve organisational goals.
Aside from being able to get a job, teamwork skills such as rapport building, reliability and conflict resolution can help you keep a job, and even rise through the ranks.
4. Leadership
Every organisation requires people that can be team players. Organisations need leaders, as well.
Often times, the question of leadership brings forth the debate on how leadership comes about. Is it innate, or can it be taught?
The truth is that leadership is a practical skill that can be learnt.
A leadership course from a reputable learning institution can prepare you for a leadership role and can indeed increase your chances of landing a job.
5. Communication
Communication today has gone beyond peer to peer interactions in the office to also include digital communication.
Previously this was mainly a skill expected majorly in just marketing and communication roles. The scope has widened.
While good communication skills are a necessity in client-facing roles, an excellent communicator in any role can articulate their ideas effectively, navigate conflict and even win the support of others.
6. Time Management and Organisational Skills
The last few years have seen a lot of research being conducted to find out how much time is wasted by professionals in the workplace.
The results have been astounding, especially when the wasted hours are converted into lost revenue.
For this reason, employees with sound time management skills are always in high demand. This skill means one can prioritise work and meet deadlines, which improves a company’s bottom line.
Organisational skills ensure an efficient workflow and reduced instances of errors and mistakes at work.
7. Data Savviness
Most organisations today are utilising big data to help them make operational decisions.
Candidates who are comfortable around data, its analysis and interpretation have the edge over their peers.
Work On Yourself
As with most things related to your career, you will be required to put time and effort into growing and perfecting your skills. You should also strive to learn new skills, as well.
In addition, make a point of picking roles and responsibilities in the workplace that compliment your best skills. This is one way to stand out and to get considered for bigger roles when they become available.