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Rebecca Serviss
With a new year comes a new opportunity to expand your knowledge and advance your career. As the job market changes and technology becomes more indispensable, employers will continue seeking candidates with unique and diverse skill sets to add to their growing teams.
What are the hottest skills employers are looking for in professionals today? Take a look at our list to find out what you should focus on in preparation for your next job application.
When you think of a creative person, many associate this skill with those with incredible artistic talents, but being creative doesn’t just apply to the arts industry. Creativity can be used for most of your day-to-day tasks at work by thinking outside the box and finding new, innovative ways to get the job done. For example, if you have difficulty finding motivation for a new project, try collaborating with other colleagues, taking breaks outside in nature, or listening to your favorite music during your work day.
For more tips on increasing your creativity in the workplace, check out this recent blog post by FileStage!
Critical thinking uses logic and common sense in decision-making, but it is also a skill that applies to any situation that requires you to analyze information and make a quick decision as well as problem-solve when unexpected challenges arise. Employers want employees who can make good decisions on the fly; this skill is often found in strong leaders.
Using your critical thinking skills can be applied anywhere, from job duties to daily situations. If you begin to look for ways to analyze situations differently, you can form better judgments and decision-making. For example, do you need help finding a way to address an issue at work? Ask yourself what is not working, or try putting yourself in someone else’s shoes. Thinking critically can help you find a solution you otherwise might have missed and will make your boss notice.
We live in a world where technology is everywhere. Whether you are looking to use the internet, your phone, or the television set, almost every aspect of life involves some form of technology. With the rise in computer science and information technology generally becoming more popular since the turn of the century, employers are looking for professionals who can use these new tools to their advantage
Digital literacy refers to an individual’s ability to find, evaluate, and communicate information through various digital platforms. This skill can be narrowed to fit many different industries and positions. For example, you may be a writer who must keep up with current trends and technologies while writing and staying on top of the latest updates. A sales associate must be able to use and sell different social media platforms. Many professionals today also use their digital skills when using their voice phone or computer to communicate.
An unknown individual once said that “there is no ‘I’ in team,” and this couldn’t be more true in the workplace. Collaboration can make you a team player who listens and communicates effectively with others. It also shows employers that you are self-aware and have the skills necessary to work well in a group setting.
Collaboration is often something employers look for in employees who are part of management or lead teams.
Still, it can be crucial for almost any position in the office or workplace. For example, you may have to review your colleague’s work and provide feedback, or work with other departments on a project.
In a recent survey,Forbes found that 85% of an individual’s success comes from their ability to communicate, negotiate, and lead effectively. The good news is that this soft skill can be learned and developed over time. This ranges anywhere from leadership communication and non-verbal communication to business presentations
Most people underestimate the role that non-verbal communication plays throughout our workday. One easy way to improve this soft skill is by becoming a better listener and noticing your body language when interacting with colleagues. BetterUp.com shares a great guide on how to build your communication skills!
Make 2023 a year to focus on your professional development and expanding your current skillset by taking a class, asking for feedback, or mentorship from another colleague to help you stand out. The number of open positions available in almost any industry is often greater than what you might find online, so having skills outside of your usual area can really help you stand out in an increasingly competitive job market.
January 17, 2023