Resource Centre Job Search Advice Key Employability Skills Fresh Graduates Need To Have

Key Employability Skills Fresh Graduates Need To Have

As a fresh graduate, it can be difficult to know what skills you need to land your dream job. There are many skills that employers look for, but some skills are more marketable than others. Here, we will discuss key employability skills that fresh graduates need. These skills will help you stand out from the crowd and land your dream job!

1. Communication Skills

One of the most important skills employers look for is strong communication skills. These include both written and verbal communication. Employers want to see that you can communicate effectively and efficiently. Strong communication skills are essential in any job, so highlight your communication skills on your CV and during your interviews.

Some tips to improve your communication skills:

  • Read books or articles on effective communication
  • Take a public speaking course
  • Practice active listening
  • Always proofread your work

Active listening is a skill that is often overlooked but it is so important! It means paying attention to the speaker and not just hearing what they are saying. This entails making eye contact, nodding your head, and asking questions.

Asking questions is also a great way to show your communication skills. Employers want to see that you are curious and willing to learn new things. Asking questions shows that you are engaged in the conversation and want to learn more about the job.

So, brush up on your communication skills before your next interview!

2. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills

Another vital skill that employers look for is strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills. In today’s ever-changing business world, employers need employees who can think on their feet and solve problems. If you can show your potential employer that you have these skills, you will be sure to stand out from the crowd.

Some tips to improve your critical thinking and problem-solving skills:

  • Take a course in critical thinking or problem solving
  • Practice brainstorming with friends or family
  • Play strategy games like chess or Go
  • Try to find creative solutions to everyday problems

Remember, employers, are looking for employees who can think outside the box and come up with creative solutions. So, if you can show them that you have these skills, you will be sure to land your dream job.

3. Teamwork and Collaboration Skills

In today’s business world, it is essential to be able to work well with others. Employers want to see that you can cooperate and collaborate with your fellow employees. Being able to compromise, communicate effectively, and respect others.

teamwork

Some tips to improve your teamwork and collaboration skills:

  • Take a course in team building or conflict resolution
  • Join a club or team sport
  • Volunteer for a community project
  • Practice working on group projects with friends or family

4. Time Management and Organization Skills

Employers want to see that you are able to manage your time and stay organized. The ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and stay on track. Time management and organization skills are essential in any job, so highlight these skills on your CV and during your interviews.

Some tips to improve your time management and organization skills:

  • Make a list of things to do each day
  • Set deadlines for yourself
  • Use a planner or calendar to keep track of events
  • Take a course in time management

5. Self-Motivation and Self-Management Skills

Potential employers want to see that you are self-motivated and able to manage your own time. This includes being able to set goals, stay on track, and motivate yourself accordingly

Some tips to improve your self-motivation and self-management skills:

  • Set goals for yourself
  • Create a timeline or plan of action
  • Find a role model or mentor

6. Leadership Skills

The ability to motivate and inspire others is a key employability skill. Employers want to see that you have the ability to lead and manage a team. This includes being able to delegate tasks, give clear instructions, and provide feedback.

Some tips to improve your leadership skills:

  • Take a course in management or leadership
  • Join a club or organization
  • Practice giving presentations or speeches
  • Leadership skills are essential in any job, so highlight these skills on your CV and during your interviews. 

So there you have it, some employability skills that fresh graduates need to have. Be sure to brush up on these skills before your upcoming interview. Also, watch the Upskilling for Employability webinar replay for the insightful session by a team of experts sharing insights on the strategies for upskilling for employability today to learn more.

WRITTEN BY
Vanessa Njenga
Notification Bell