Being the Industry’s Tailored-Fit

“We may not be able to offer long-term employment, but we should try to offer long-term employability.”

- Brian Corby

For quite some time now, the term "Employability Gap" has been making the rounds on the internet. According to the most recent India Skill Report 2022, only 46.2% of graduates are employable. This is in the Indian context but the problem is quite global.

What we believe in and work for is an important part of our job, but it is the soft skills (which seem to be a total misnomer btw) that take away the role.

Pic credits: ioustshine.com

Consider this: I am well-versed in all of the software skills required for the position, but the fact that I prefer to work alone and am unable to handle criticism makes me unsuitable for the position.

My internship trainer used to tell me that while industry skills will come as you work the role, personal skills will help you maintain the role.

So, here are the six skills that will make you a good fit for the role.

1) Communication

Can this point be more stressed? If one person is unable to get you or you are unable to get them, and you must work together, the job will never be completed with the same goals in mind. Learn to be clear and concise with your words when communicating, or simply use the KISS technique (Keep it Short and Simple).

2) Management

Whether you have a managerial or non-management role, you must have good personal management skills. Time management, financial management, and work-life balance are all management roles that people must play in their lives. Good management skills are also demonstrated by how a person plans and organizes the things and events that surround them, and whether or not this makes them effective.

3) Teamwork

Companies operate in teams, and teams require teamwork. Accepting other people's ideas with an open mind and working on them with conviction is required. There will be disagreements, but they must be resolved amicably and professionally. During arguments, try active listening and understanding the other person; this may help you solve the problem together.

4) Problem Solving

Problem solving in the workplace is a highly rewarding skill to have. To solve any problem, there are four steps: understanding the problem, brainstorming solutions, developing a strategy, and finally implementing the solution. 

Pic credits: slidemodel.com

5) Decision Making

If there is one top skill that will propel you to leadership positions and up the corporate ladder, this is it. There are many different types of decisions to be made: strategic, tactical, operational, and so on, but there are some key elements to consider in order to make an impactful decision. A good decision should be based on information and include creative alternatives, sound logic, a commitment to follow through, clear values, and the ability to assist in reaching the end goal.

6) Initiative

This is the skill that distinguishes you from others. If you can assess a situation and act without being directed by a superior, it indicates interest in the role and also helps in situations such as remote work to help the hard work get noticed. Being a quick learner, adaptable, and proactive will help you achieve your goals.

This list is not exhaustive, as there are many industry-specific skills that are also required for employment. The set of skills listed here, on the other hand, will allow you to take on any job with greater ease.

Hope you have a great time acquiring them.