Yes; a diploma claims that you have a certain skill set. However, it doesn’t tell the whole story. Employers are looking for skills that go beyond or complement your degree. There are several additional skills that can help you stand out to potential employers. See if you can add a few before you start looking for work.
Appropriate skills
Sometimes you will find yourself applying for jobs that don’t quite match your degree. But don’t just apply blindly – make sure you have the skills looking for employers. For example, don’t apply to an accounting firm if you have no experience with accounting software. Showcase your problem-solving skills, even if they don’t exactly fit that specific work environment. Some places are willing to train good people with potential, but try to present your strengths in such a way that employers don’t anticipate a long learning curve.
Unique or relevant courses
Tell potential employers if you have courses beyond your degree. Maybe you majored in English but took psychology or biology courses. The ability to speak another language is an invaluable skill. So be sure to mention whether you master or speak a foreign language fluently, even if this does not seem relevant.
Extracurricular activities
Employers value people who go beyond their studies and who have a wide range of talents and experiences. Did you join a club in college? Have you studied abroad for a semester? Were you involved in leadership positions, such as in university government or student newsrooms?
Internship experience
Since your employment history may be limited, you should always include internships as if they were previous jobs. If you intern at the company you are applying to, you have a greater chance of being hired. But no matter where you intern, you’ll have additional skills and experiences that other applicants may not have.
Volunteer work
Have you volunteered for your church’s cleaning crew? How about a homeless shelter or a soup kitchen? Volunteer experience shows that you have compassion and that helping people and your community is important to you. It also shows that you can work well with others, which is essential. Show off all the volunteer work you’ve done.
Qualified references
It’s fine if your friends say you’re a great guy, but it won’t impress an employer. However, having someone who is well-known and respected in your chosen field and who can vouch for your character and abilities could be the difference between getting the job and being passed over for someone else. So keep in touch with your teachers, or with any company you have interned or volunteered for. These relationships can pay off in your job search.
Communication skills
Do you write well? Are you a good listener? When you answer questions, are you thorough and direct? Communication – or the lack thereof – directly impacts a work environment. Knowing how to do something is very different from telling someone how to do something, especially in writing. Definitely do it demonstrate your communication skills by identifying how you solved problems, taught others, or provided instructions.
Pleasant personality
Simply put: are you someone that others like to be around? The working day can be long and hard. Employers want to ensure that you are responsible, approachable and a good team player. Having a sense of humor is a plus, but being an office comedian is not; find a balance.
If you are an introvert, try to be more outgoing and communicate more effectively with others at work. Be friendly, but professional. Show your social skills. Introduce yourself to others, smile and maintain eye contact when you speak.
Don’t worry if you have gaps in your resume or work experience; Few people have all these qualities, especially when starting a new career. Instead, focus on the good things you can bring to each potential employer and communicate them throughout the interview process.
You have proven that you can obtain a university degree. Now you have to prove that you can put your training into practice. Good luck with your job search!
Photo credit: COD Newsroom
#employers #college #degree