Employability skills are the transferable competencies that make you a valuable candidate for any job. These are a combination of knowledge, technical abilities, and personal attributes that contribute to success in the workplace. Often referred to as “soft skills” or “transferable skills,” employability skills show how you work, collaborate with others, and think critically.
Employers are not only looking for technical expertise, but also for qualities that indicate you’ll be a productive member of their team. Skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, taking initiative, and achieving targets are highly sought after. To stand out, it’s crucial to demonstrate how your unique experiences align with the company’s needs and goals.
Providing specific examples of how you’ve applied these skills in the past can make a significant difference in your application and set you apart from other candidates. These examples help employers determine if you are a good fit for their organization.
Here they are;
We’ve compiled a list of 10 essential employability skills that are highly valued by employers across industries. These skills often make the difference in whether your application makes a lasting impression:
- Commercial Awareness
This skill reflects your understanding of how businesses operate and succeed. Demonstrating knowledge about the organization and the commercial skills you bring to the table can set you apart. - Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in any job. Employers want to see that you can listen, follow instructions, articulate ideas, challenge viewpoints, and communicate clearly with both colleagues and customers. - Teamwork
Working well with others is vital for any business. Show that you can contribute to team goals, collaborate, delegate, listen, and take responsibility for your part of the workload. - Negotiation Skills
The ability to balance your ideas with those of others and reach a positive outcome is a valuable skill. Reflect on times when you’ve made compromises and reached agreements. - Problem-Solving
Employers look for candidates who can think critically and solve problems. They want to know that you can use your knowledge and experience to develop effective solutions. - Leadership
Leadership skills are valued even in entry-level positions, as they show potential for future growth. Employers want to see how you motivate others, delegate tasks, and contribute to the team’s success. - Organizational Skills
Being able to manage your workload, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines is crucial in most roles. Showcase how you stay organized and deliver results on time. - Ability to Learn
A willingness to learn new things and adapt is highly valued by employers. Demonstrate times when you’ve taken the initiative to improve your skills or used feedback to enhance your work. - Working Under Pressure
Businesses rely on employees who can handle pressure and meet targets. Show that you can remain calm and productive when deadlines are tight or challenges arise. - Positive Attitude and Initiative
Employers want proactive employees who think for themselves and take action without needing constant guidance. A positive, “can-do” attitude paired with the ability to see tasks through is a winning combination.
To learn more on employability, watch the video below;