If you’re seeking employment, you want to show employers that you have basic soft and hard skills that will be valuable to their organization. For example, the ability to learn and follow instructions, work as a team and organize your time are valuable practical skills.
Restart Your Career is a practical skills development and employment training program that will equip you with the skills you need to work. In addition, it will give you basic computer and technology skills employers seek, and some helpful certification.
Here are 10 practical skills employers are looking for:
1. Communication
- Verbal: Being able to share ideas clearly and confidently in discussions.
- Written: Being proficient in writing clear, concise, and proofread content for emails and other documents.
- Listening: Active listening to understand instructions, feedback, and perspectives.
2. Teamwork and Collaboration
- Interpersonal Skills: The ability to work well with others and build positive working relationships.
- Collaboration: Understanding how to work in teams, contributing ideas, and working towards common team goals.
3. Problem-Solving
- Analytical Thinking: Ability to think through situations, identify problems, and find solutions.
- Coming up with ideas and approaches to challenges.
4. Adaptability and Flexibility
- Willingness to Learn: Employers want you to be open to new ideas and a desire to learn and grow in your job.
- Adaptability: Sometimes things change, so being able to adjust to new situations and challenges with ease is an asset.
5. Time Management and Organization
- Prioritization: What needs to be done first? Managing tasks effectively and prioritizing work to meet deadlines is a valuable skill.
- Organization: Keeping work organized and making sure you maintain a smooth work flow.
6. Technical and Computer Skills
- Basic Computer Literacy: Employers look for basic proficiency in using computers. This use could include word processing, spreadsheets, and email.
- Remote Working Tools: Because some jobs are remote or done from home, you might need to learn specific remote working tools like video conferencing (Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, etc.) or other organization-specific software.
7. Attention to Detail
- Accuracy: Making sure that work is accurate and without errors.
- Thoroughness: Carefully and thoughtfully completing work and paying attention to details.
8. Initiative and Self-Motivation
- Being Proactive: Noticing where you could use improvement and working with your employer to find a solution.
- Self-motivation: Employers love a self-starter! Learn how to work independently and stay motivated without constant supervision.
9. Customer Service Skills
- Empathy: Understanding and addressing customer needs and concerns.
- Patience: Remaining calm and patient when dealing with difficult situations or clients.
10. Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity
- Diversity Awareness: Understanding and respecting cultural differences and working effectively in diverse teams.
- Inclusion: Contributing to an inclusive work environment.
Develop these skills with Restart Your Career!
Restart Your Career provides 24 weeks of practical training and employment placement to help take your career in a new direction. Our program can help you develop these practical work skills, including computer training and obtaining important certification like Standard First Aid and CPR, WHMIS and customer service training. We can also help you connect with employers to learn about the skills and qualities they value.
