Several Americans remain unemployed and are engaging in lengthy job searches. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate reached about 8 percent at the end of April 2012. As a result, evaluating your skills and relevance in this job market begins with an examination of your talents, reveals ARAcontent.
According to Tammy Newsom, Director of Career Services at Brown Mackie College - Birmingham, "Employers can be picky. There's a large pool of applicants to choose from." She emphasizes that "Candidates must be sure to offer a well-rounded skill set, not just technical knowledge."
Newsom reveals some of the must-have attributes job candidates should have include computer skills. Many companies are also requiring candidates to complete the employment application online. "In nearly every industry, everything from scheduling appointments to ordering lunch happens on a computer," Newsom added. "Colleges have adopted technology, too. Many colleges, including Brown Mackie College - Birmingham, utilize iPads for classroom lectures, and assign eBook reading, to help students keep up with technology."
Secondly, communication skills go hand in hand with computer skills. This includes both written and oral communications. According to the website Investopedia, this is seen as one of the principal skills that employers look for in a candidate. If you are unable to construct a proper cover letter, you won't get called in for an interview. Newsom divulges that "During the interview, if you can't speak well, you won't get the job. Every sector of business looks for articulate employees who can effectively communicate with co-workers and clients and customers."
Another talent that many employers look for in job candidates is "A positive attitude," says Newsom. The website Quintessential Careers considers this quality as a top skill for job seekers. "A positive attitude is an essential skill to master," Newsom reveals. "A bad one affects everyone around you. This isn't something you can fake. Body language reflects your true attitude, and people can read body language." She adds that "A good attitude is especially important for managers, who must be approachable by the staff."
Several unemployed workers look at going back to school in order to improve their qualifications or train for an entirely different career. According to Newsom, "mapping a detailed plan for finding a place in the job market," is highly recommended. "Education can be costly. Knowing what you want enables you to examine the rewards of gaining job skills versus the financial risk."
Newsom acknowledges that "Taking a class or attending a seminar can be extremely helpful. It offers the reward of supporting your professional goal. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there, no matter how long you have been out of school." Updated skills and knowledge not only improves your skills and resume, the experience often provides good networking prospects.
One of the most crucial elements that employers look for in a candidate not only involves technical capabilities, but also whether or not that individual is a good fit for the company. Many qualified candidates don't get the position because of fit. This is why researching the company you are interviewing with is crucial.
After getting the job, Newsom advises workers top stay focused on succeeding. She emphasizes that employees should "Go above and beyond the scope of your job duties. When you see a lack, follow up on it, even if not asked to do so. Maybe you have a suggestion to streamline a process. Maybe you take it upon yourself to wash the office coffee pot."
