The sluggish economy has made it difficult for many people to find jobs. Even those who have jobs have found themselves facing layoffs or forced early retirement. Few workers feel like they have job security. However, there are small steps that employees can take to increase their marketability and to become more competitive in the current job market. Knowing the skills that employers are looking for can help workers hone those skills and highlight them on their resume. Though specific skills will vary from employer to employer and job to job, here are some of the basic skills that all employers look for in top candidates:

Communication

Verbal and written communication skills are valued by all employers. The ability to effectively convey your ideas, to relay the company message to customers, and to work with other employees and superiors is critical to personal success and to the success of the business. Listening, speaking, and writing are all valued communication skills.

Interpersonal Skills

Employers want employees who are team players and who are able to bring co-workers together and to mitigate conflict. Employees who can inspire others to participate and to do their best work are also highly valued. Being personable, having the ability to compromise, and knowing how to communicate well with others are all aspects of good interpersonal skills.

Initiative

Workers who are motivated and self-directed are highly valued by employees in any job market. Taking the initiative to pursue projects and new ideas shows employers that you don’t need a lot of guidance or encouragement to perform your work. You also show employers that you will push beyond what is expected of you and will deliver much more than just what is required.

Adaptability

Business requires that employees be flexibility — willing to perform tasks in new ways, to work longer or different hours, and to do more than what’s expected. Employees who show this adaptability are highly valued by employers. Strategies for success are always changing, and employees who are able to adapt to these changes will serve companies the best.

Leadership

Leadership encompasses a number of qualities, including problem solving, critical thinking, creativity, and innovation. Employers need workers who can come up with new and dynamic ways to solve problems and to encourage others to do the same. Innovation helps employers to create new products and new services, or to find new ways to reach customers. All of these skills actively contribute to the success of the company.

Computer Literacy

Basic computer competency is an essential skill for any job as technology has become ubiquitous in every business environment. The ability to quickly learn new computer programs and how to use new technology is essential for success in any job. Technology is always changing, and those who are able to keep up with the changes will be the most successful.

Though no job is ever really “recession proof,” and no employee safe from the economic hardships of layoffs and downsizing, there are several things that employees can do to make themselves more competitive and attractive to employers. Honing some of these highly desirable skills and reformatting your resume to highlight these skills is one step in the right direction.

About the author:

Amanda Tradwick is a grant researcher and writer for CollegeGrants.org. She has a Bachelor’s degrees from the University of Delaware, and has recently finished research on college scholarships and grants for women

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