NEWS & ADVICE · All the latest news and insightful advice for experienced graduates to continue a successful career


What Employers are Looking For

Danielle McQueen , 12 March 2007

When looking for a new job most people would love to know exactly what it is that employers are looking for.  This will vary to some extent according to the specific job that you are going for but there are some skills that are universal to all sectors, also known as transferable skills:



Communication skills
This is one of the most important and is the one skill mentioned most by employers.  Your ability to converse, write and present information to different audiences is critical in business and so this is one talent that is very highly regarded by employers.



Leadership skills
Employers look for this because it demonstrates your ability to take charge of a situation and manage your co-workers.  This skill also shows that you are a confident and motivated candidate.



Flexibility
By being flexible and able to adapt easily will show your ability to manage more than one thing at a time and will also show any future employers that you will fit into the new environment quickly.



Research skills
By showing your analytical side you will demonstrate your talent for gathering information and identifying any key issues that may need attention.



Initiative
This is always a good skill to have as it will show that you can work efficiently on your own without constant guidance. 



Teamwork
Many jobs involve working in teams and groups and so the ability to be able to work with others towards a common goal is very important.  For this, you will need to be professional while at the same time, building trust with the rest of the team.



Computer Literacy
Nearly every job will require you to have some knowledge of computers and a basic set of I.T skills.  By showing that you are computer literate you will make future employers more likely to hire you.



Problem solving
This involves being able to find solutions to problems using both the resources available to you and your creativity.  It shows that you are organised.



Interpersonal skills
You will also need to demonstrate that you are able to get on with your colleagues and build good working relationships.  Different people require different approaches and by having good interpersonal skills you will show employers that you are also self-aware. 



To read more about transferable skills click here

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