The prospect of applying for a job as a recent graduate can be a daunting experience. Whether you have finished your university studies, apprenticeship or TAFE course these skills will all be necessary to help you succeed. With an increasing number of graduates applying for each role, you must now demonstrate that you’ve developed the key skills employers are searching for.
Although the knowledge and skills required will vary according to the job role, it is crucial to display how you have already attained the essential attributes that will make you a beneficial addition to the business.
Communication and Social
The ability to communicate clearly and work well within a team is imperative to successful employment. Expressing your ideas can be done in different ways, these include oral, written and visual and can all include using a range of technologies. These skills are of keen interest to employers, it shows you can concisely convey your ideas, your ability to listen to others and also how well you can persuade and negotiate with people in a way that is comprehensible and appropriate.
Leadership and Management
When applying for a job, even if you’re not intending to work in a management position it is still vital to demonstrate to your employers that you have the capability to direct and motivate others in order to achieve objectives and tasks. The ability to control situations, solve problems, delegate to others and take on responsibility is highly respected by recruiters. It is important to build positive working relationships that will help everyone achieve business goals and objectives.
Planning and Research
To allow you to accomplish some work tasks you may be required to work out a suitable plan of action or strategy. This could include seeking out relevant information from a variety of sources. The important skills here are how you analyse, interpret and report these findings.
Problem Solving
This is a vital skill in daily life which proves important to what employers are looking for. It is important to display an ability to take an analytical and logical approach to solving problems and resolving any issues you may come across. An ability to approach problems from a variety of angles is important to employers.
Perseverance and Motivation
Working life presents many challenges and it is important to show your employer that you are willing to find a way through and to stay upbeat and positive. The ability to work under pressure is key, this means remaining calm in any crisis and not becoming too overwhelmed and stressed.
Self Management
This means showing that you can prioritise and work efficiently and productively. The specific tasks of your job with always be in context with the company’s goals and what it is trying to accomplish. You should ensure this by prioritising your duties, working well under pressure and managing your time effectively shows as an individual you are flexible, resilient and can be trusted.
Relevant Work Experience
In today’s competitive job market it is becoming increasingly important to have undertaken relevant work experience. Undergraduates are having to be extremely skilfull in gaining the appropriate experience that employers are after. It is sometimes necessary to partake in unpaid work schemes (internships) are sometimes an option and a great way to network within an industry.
Author Bio
Caroline Schmidt writes the blogs for Kangan Institute. She is passionate about education, careers, and giving advice to students of all ages.