Looking for a job can be very difficult at times, especially when many people are applying for the exact same position as you. Having a qualification is essential, but employers also look for practical skills that can show how well you can work, solve problems and adapt to the workplace.
These are often regarded as employability skills. These are skills that make it easier to find a job, perform better and prepare for career opportunities in future.
On the plus side, employability skills can be developed. Whether you are looking for your first job, returning to work or hoping to advance into a higher role, learning new skills helps boost confidence and preparation.
Almost every workplace uses digital technology. No need to be an IT expert, but having basic digital literacy skills can make a huge difference when applying for jobs.
Many employers expect workers to do basic administration work, such as knowing how to use a computer, send emails, create documents and find information online.
Useful digital skills include:
Digital skills are useful across many career fields, such as Office Administration, Marketing, Business Management, Internal Auditing and Paralegal Studies.
Do not avoid a job application because technology makes you nervous. Digital skills can be learnt through practice.
Completing a digital literacy or computer course helps you become more confident using technology in the workplace.
Good communication is a very important employability skill to develop.
Communication is more than just speaking clearly. It includes listening, writing emails, following instructions and communicating respectfully with colleagues, clients and customers.
Strong communication skills are most essential in careers where you interact directly with people.
For example, a Social Auxiliary Worker communicates with individuals, families, groups and communities. Someone working in Home-Based Care needs to communicate respectfully with clients, families and other caregiving professionals.
Those working in Office Administration or Paralegal professionals also need strong written and verbal communication skills when dealing with clients, colleagues, documents and professional correspondence.
Customer service skills are very useful in retail, hospitality, administration, healthcare, marketing and many other fields.
Knowing how to stay composed, listen to people and respond professionally, makes you a valuable member of any organisation.
Employers need dependable people. Being organised and having good time management shows that you can take responsibility for your work.
Office administration skills are useful in almost all industries. Businesses, schools, healthcare organisations, government departments and non-profit organisations all need people who can help keep daily operations organised.
Useful administrative skills may include:
These skills prepare you for different administrative and support roles, as well as providing a strong foundation for career development in future.
Understanding how businesses operate also makes you more approachable.
Business Management studies introduces you to areas like planning, administration, leadership, operations, customer service and management.
These skills are valuable whether you want to work for an organisation, move into a management position or potentially establish your own business.
Developing skills for a particular career can help you stand out more.
The right course depends on your desired interests and career goals:
Choosing the field that matches your strengths and interests helps you develop the relevant skills for the type of field that you want to work in.
Education does not have to end when you finish school. As an adult, you can continue learning at different stages of your life.
If you did not finish school, continuing your education and achieving qualifications may help you access more opportunities.
Depending on your circumstances and goals, you could explore options such as Adult Matric, GED®, ABET or career-focused skills-based programmes.
Completing a course or qualification also demonstrates commitment, discipline and an eagerness to learn.
The workplace continues to change, which means technology develops, industries change and employers need new skills. This means you should not stop learning once you secure a job.
You can continue developing and upskilling yourself through short courses, workplace training, qualifications and practical experience.
Becoming more employable is not about having that one perfect qualification. It is about building a combination of education, practical skills, confidence and ability in the workplace.
Start by thinking about the career you want to be in. Then look at the qualifications and skills employers are searching for in that field.
Whether you are interested in Internal Auditing, Paralegal Studies, Social Auxiliary Work, Marketing, Business Management, Office Administration or Home-Based Care, developing the right skills helps you prepare for your next step in your career .
At Adult Education Institute, we believe that adults should have the opportunity to continue learning, develop practical skills and work towards new career possibilities.
Ready for the next step? Explore our study options and find a programme that best suits your career goals. Enrol today!
