Did you know?

•Hard Skills are specific, teachable abilities or demonstrable competencies functionally required by a job (e.g. knowledge of software development, financial analysis, typing, and driving).

•Soft Skills include personal qualities (e.g. motivation, sense of responsibility, integrity, and problem-solving) and interpersonal abilities (e.g. leadership, communication, listening, and team orientation).

•How do employers rate hard vs. soft skills when hiring?  Employers will differ; however, some statistics site the 80/20 rule - 80% on soft skills and 20% hard skills.  Why?  The teaching of hard skills can be enhanced on the job; but as an adult, appropriate soft skills are an expected prerequisite!

•Behavioral interviews are often used by employers to identify candidates who possess the traits and characteristics they have deemed necessary for success in a particular job.  Some sample behavioral-based questions:

»Describe a time when you were faced with a stressful situation that demonstrated your coping skills.

»Give me an example of a time when you set a goal and were able to meet or achieve it.

»Give me a specific example of a time when you used good judgment and logic in solving a problem.

•Employers want people who will make their businesses more successful!  How will you convince the interviewing employer that you ARE that person?

 

What are Employers Looking For?

Employers are often looking for a specific set of skills from job-seekers that match the skills necessary to perform a particular job.  But beyond these job-specific technical skills, certain soft skills are also sought by employers.

The good news is that you've acquired these skills through your backbround, formal education, and previous work experiences.  What are these employability skills desired by nearly all employers?

Basic Skills   Reading, writing, math, speaking, listening, computer.
       
Critical Thinking Skills   Know how to learn, ability to reason and analyze, ability to think creatively, ability to make decision, problem solving, organization skills.
       
Interpersonal Skills   Team player, sense of humor, ability to teach others, customer service, leadership, ability to negotiate.
       
Ability to Allocate   Time, money, materials, space, staff.
Personal Qualities   Responsiblity, creativity, confidence, self-management, sociability, honesty, flexibility, work ethic, relating to others.

Degrees in Demand

Of course, career demands fluctuate just as today's economy.  Degrees that are found to be currently in demand include: