4 must-have professional skills
Regardless of your career or the industry that you work in, here are the top 4 professional skills you’ll definitely need to make it.
1. business language
The clarity of your communication can greatly affect your professional image. Workers who are able to articulate better are more often highly evaluated and stand out more. Not only will a good command of language help articulate your mind clearly, it also makes it easier for others to understand what your motivations are. You may also want to consider improving your second language to expand your portfolio to other markets.
If you have struggled with writing a business email or commanding a room during a presentation, consider taking a part-time or short-term business language course.
2. basic financing and accounting skills
Regardless of what career you’re in, you’ll need to manage budgets as you climb up the career ladder. Whether it is managing expenditure budgets or projecting manufacturing output calculations, it is always good to brush up on simple accounting and financial skills.
Many employers value workers who know how to optimise the budget effectively and are very attracted to candidates who can propose changes and initiate projects that will lead to higher revenues and lower costs.
3. social media marketing
It is very rare to use a fax machine these days. Everyone has an online footprint and are actively communicating and connecting with their loved ones on social media apps. But your social media activities should not just stop at sharing funny videos or inspirational quotes with your friends and family. It is critical for professionals across all careers and industries to have good social media marketing skills to successfully navigate the digital marketing world.
Having a strong personal online brand and being able to connect with professional peers to discuss market trends and news can help build your online presence. And before you even know it, potential employers could be reaching out to you directly on LinkedIn!
4. data analytics
A basic understanding of data analytics would be a useful tool in your belt. Having good data analytical skills means that you have a good understanding of trends and can help map future scenarios that can help the company save costs. It teaches you logic and problem solving skills that you can apply in every aspect of your career, and may even open a few doors for new career opportunities.
While it may look daunting, not all data analytics skills are technical and difficult to acquire. Data analytical tools are used to all companies to help make informed decisions. The most traditional form of data analysis uses spreadsheets with advanced Microsoft Excel knowledge. Most global companies use data dashboards that are powered by Hubspot and Tableau, or have built their own proprietary dashboards for sales tracking or manufacturing production. Find out what are some of the commonly-used dashboards in your industry and sign up for professional courses to learn the basics.
Employers are more likely to hire candidates who know how to use different dashboards as they require a shorter onboarding and can get the ground running. So make sure that you list your data analytical skills on your CVs!
You have to be willing to try new things and embrace change and continue investing in yourself so that you stand a better chance at securing a job the next time. Remember that no matter how qualified you are, nobody gets a job on their first try. It’s all about perseverance and adapting to the new normal, and most importantly, keep your chin up!
If you’re looking for a job, head over to our job portal to look at the newest job openings in the market! You can also keep reading up on career advice hub.
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