New Zealand Work Skills

If you find yourself looking for a job, it pays to know what skills employers look for when interviewing and selecting candidates. Whether you're entering the workforce for the first time, returning to work after a break or making a career change, you'll need to demonstrate a number of key work skills. So, what are the basic work skills you'll need?

Here are the top ten attributes and skills employers are on the look-out for:

1. Adaptability

Your potential employer wants to know that you'll fit in to the new workplace and take on your new role with an open mind. Adaptability means you will be able to find a place within your new team, learn new skills, be willing to adapt to your new workplace's practices and contribute fresh, new ideas.

Consider when you've shown adaptability in your previous work experience, or how they may want you to demonstrate adaptability in your new role. Maybe you've worked for a small company and your new position is within a large, corporate enterprise. Make it clear to your potential employer that you feel you will adapt to your new surroundings and work well in the new workplace environment.

2. Communication

Verbal and written communication skills are some of the most important job skills you can have in any profession - even those which may not seem to require them.

A large part of good verbal communication skills is having the confidence to voice your opinion or present your ideas; if you're unsure about your abilities in this area, think about what you want to say before speaking and voice your message in a concise, articulate and persuasive way. Consider a time when you've shown strength in this area; perhaps you've been responsible for making presentations to committees or running discussions in your university tutorial groups? Make sure you show off your best verbal communication skills in the interview (even if you're feeling nervous!).

Written communication skills are also something that employers look for when considering job candidates. While these won't always be tested in an interview situation, you may be asked about your writing skills - including vocabulary, grammar, editing or proof reading skills. Be ready to talk about your strengths in this area; maybe you've had experience in copy writing, composing reports, or writing correspondence and documentation.

3. Work ethic

A strong work ethic is something you may have demonstrated in your previous work experience and in any courses of study you have completed. A work ethic is a generalised attribute - so it is likely to be something that comes across in your overall employment history and work references. It's still important, though, to consider times when you have shown an ability to work hard, with diligence and commitment to a project or role.

4. Interpersonal skills

Crossing over with communication skills, interpersonal skills are required in almost every job and every profession. You will need to interact with others in the workplace and perhaps also with clients and the general public - so ‘people skills' are vital. Consider times when you have demonstrated your ability to:

• Build strong working relationships with members of your team

• Worked closely with someone on a project to reach a successful resolution

• Overcome a personality clash or difference of opinion within the workplace

• Deal in a professional and friendly way with customers or clients.

8. Self-Management

As well as working and interacting with others, you will need to demonstrate good self-management skills too. Are you successful when working alone? Are you able to take the initiative and come up with solutions on your own? Do you show good time management and organisational skills? Have you shown skills in meeting deadlines and prioritising your work tasks? Do you work well even without close supervision? Have you been responsible for management of significant projects? All of these questions should be considered when applying for a position. Let the employer know that you are capable of managing yourself, while also being able to follow directions or guidance from others.

5. IT skills

Where would we be without the benefits of computer and Internet technology? In the last fifteen years, these skill areas have become increasingly important. It's easy if you've been raised as a child during the digital age, but if you're new to this kind of technology, you can learn basic skills at a beginners' computer course. When applying for a position, let your potential employer know what skills you have in word processing, use of software, content management systems, internet marketing or any other computer skills which are relevant to the role. In your CV, include any training or computer courses that you have completed. If you're not sure about compiling your resume or CV, find out how to write a good CV.

6. Analytical skills

Skills of research and analysis will demonstrate to an employer that you are able to problem solve and approach challenges or tasks in a logical, methodical and intelligent way. Think of times when you have shown skills in carrying out research, collecting data, analysing information and presenting your findings and conclusions. If you are a new graduate, don't forget that tertiary studies will demonstrate your ability to carry out effective research, analysis and interpretation.

7. Commercial awareness

Business acumen and awareness of commercial realities are important in many roles. While you may not have held a position in management, you will have been aware of the day-to-day running of a business or organisation. Try to think of connections or similarities between the new role and your previous work environments, or find ways in which your skills can be applied to the new situation. Before submitting your application or approaching an employer, find out about their current business model, major clients or achievements and their vision as a company. This will give you something to contribute to the interview - and questions to ask!

9. Enthusiasm

A positive attitude is extremely valuable in an employee; not only will your enthusiasm mean you are a productive worker, your positivity will rub off on others around you. A positive and happy team is a productive one. Your enthusiasm and motivation will also mean you'll be ready and willing to learn new skills, proactively seek ways to improve your workflow and be a good ambassador for the company. As well as thinking of situations in which you've shown commitment and enthusiasm in a role, let it show at your job interview: sit well, smile, vary your tone of voice and show an active interest in the role and the company.

10. Attention to detail

Paying attention to getting the little details right makes the difference between good work and excellent work. To an employer, your attention to detail will translate into skills at work. An eye for detail will give your work professionalism, accuracy and a consistently high standard. It will also mean you won't be careless in your general work practice and you'll set high standards of achievement for yourself and others.

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Business images from Flickr: Corporate, New Zealand Flag and Wellington Buildings.