When you first sit down at your desk in an interview for a job, the employer typically asks you to “show us your skills.” This usually entails displaying your technical skills, but it can also mean showing your creative or interpersonal skills. While some fields are less technically-demanding than other such as data entry or nursing, you still can make an impression on an employer by demonstrating that you not only have the technical bids, but that you have also the broader it, too. A broader skill set can help prove that you have the general competencies needed for the job. If you exhibit these broader skills, however, it can be difficult to come across as totally compatible with the job, especially if the job you’re interviewing for is more technical than those typical of job seekers.
Let’s take an example of a job where the primary task requires strong work ethic and written communication skills. The hiring manager may ask you to write a proposal for a new customer-facing position. In this type of job, it’s hard to assume that you will have strong work ethic and written communication skills. However, if you show the hiring manager that you possess these skills, you may be more likely to get the job. Here’s how this works:
Showing that you have strong interpersonal skills. Now, some people are great at communicating effectively. For example, many salespeople have excellent interpersonal skills. However, if you lack the interpersonal skills necessary to communicate effectively in the workplace, your chances of being hired are slim.
Showing that you have solid technical skills. A typical resume will include a section highlighting your related skills and experience. It’s critical to emphasize your strong technical skills, because employers don’t care about your fluff-filled resume. Your technical skills need to be emphasized on the resume because it’s what will separate you from other candidates. Therefore, make sure that your resume highlights your strong skill sets related to the job description.
Showing that you have good decision-making skills. A hiring manager may ask you to read through an internal company document. If the document is particularly interesting or provides you with a great deal of insight, it’s important to include it on your resume.
Recognizing soft skills. One important consideration for job-seekers is developing interpersonal skills as well as developing your own strong skill sets related to the job. For example, some job-seekers develop their technical skills so much so that they don’t realize that they are also good communicators. If you have strong soft skills such as listening skills and strong technical skills, this could mean that you don’t have to spend so much time training yourself to be a good communicator – you just do it naturally.
Communicating well. Many hiring managers look at your personality when they are looking at your application. If you show that you are personable and are good at socializing and meeting people, then you will most likely be able to convey your thoughts across better than those who do not possess these kinds of interpersonal skills. This doesn’t mean that you should be overly talkative; rather, it’s important to communicate your needs effectively to hiring personnel.
Strong leadership and self-management skills. One of the best things you can do when preparing for the interview process is to develop your own strong leadership and self-management skills. You can do this by taking the time to really understand the process of workplace communication, improving your communication skills as well as doing a little bit of hands-on practice with similar projects. In addition, leadership and self-management skills will serve you well throughout the whole hiring process. Ultimately, it will make you a more attractive and appealing candidate to prospective employers.
