Workplace Skills

Employers are looking for people who have the following skills:

Basic Skills

Reading, writing, math, and technology.

Overview: Reading, understanding, and writing and policy manuals, organization guidelines, memos, letters, reports, etc. May be asked to inform or persuade others with written material that is clear with few mistakes (if any). Basic knowledge of computer operation (Windows and Mac) and mainstream applications along with keyboarding skills (45 WPM+) opens the door to many career opportunities. Math often comes about when counting change back to a customer, planing budgets, analyzing statistics, or working with machinery.

Thinking Skills

Problem solving, making decisions, logical and creative thinker.

Overview: Be able to identify a problem, gather information, develop feasible solutions, choose and carry out the best solution(s) (implement), and evaluate the results. Be able to present new ideas and unique solutions in a creative way. Use good judgment to evaluate your facts and beliefs and use logic to convince others of how to reach their goals and move forward in the workplace.

Personal Management Skills

Self-motivated, dependable, and able to manage stress.

Overview: Enthusiastic, hard working, cooperative individual who is responsible, dependable, and honest. Admits mistakes and learns from the experience. Able to manage time and stress well.

Interpersonal Skills

Able to communicate and work as part of a team.

Overview: Think carefully before speaking. Speak clearly and confidently, presenting one idea at a time until they are understood. Listen actively giving the speaker their full attention, don't rush or interrupt people, and ask questions for clarification when needed. Good body language and a friendly disposition. Recognize and embrace the differences among a team atmosphere, work together with others to solve conflict, and be cooperative at all times.

Learn how certain skills can help you in today's workplace. Determine what skills you currently have and develop a plan to improve your weaknesses.

There are several ways to develop your skills: On the job training, a mentor, apprenticeships, workshops, adult education courses, career centers, employment office, and the Internet are all good places to start. Plan ahead and start building your skills now to get the edge on the competition.