ALT-1 How to Develop Marketable Skills
Attending a reputable educational program can earn you specialized skills, but what you're really looking for are marketable skills. You may have even heard them referred to as transferable skills. Let's look at a few of them.
LeadershipThis is one of the most marketable skills out there. You may be best in class as far as the latest technology goes, but if you aren't willing to step up to the plate without being asked, then you'll be of little help to the organization who is looking for someone who is capable of self-management or the potential to lead others.
Look to your community to acquire this skill. Volunteering is the fastest and most satisfying way to become a leader. You may find out that you were a natural all along. Read, read, read. Read as many books and articles you can on the importance of leadership. There are so many, I can't even begin to reference them. Check out the Internet and your local library and you will be surprised at the wealth of information out there waiting for you.
CommunicationThis one is right up there with leadership. After all, you can't lead if you can't communicate effectively. Using your "chationary" skills won't cut it in the big leagues. Learn how to speak and write the correct way. Using the word "like", after every, like, word will only make you seem immature and incapable of expressing yourself. Write like you mean it. Use proper grammar and style.Nothing irks folks more than receiving an email written in all CAPITAL LETTERS followed by a slew of exclamation points! Practice this skill by asking someone you trust to read your stuff, or read it aloud to yourself. This is the quickest way to identify problem areas in your communication. Refer to writing style guides like The Elements of Style, by William Strunk and E.B. White. I keep a copy on my desk at all times.
PresentationThe ability to present yourself may not come natural to you, like so many others, but it is an essential selling point for companies looking for diverse talent. For most average human beings, just the thought of public speaking brings on an anxiety attack. The only way to slay this dragon, if you are not a born speaker, is to do it and do it often. Take a presentation course, this is a guaranteed audience that will be empathetic to your jittery voice and sweaty brow. My best advice for a would-be presenter? Be prepared, know your subject matter, practice, and remember that the audience doesn't really know it when you miss something. There's bound to be a show off in you somewhere.
OrganizationPlain and simple, no one wants to work with someone who is messy and unorganized. If your boss is standing at your desk waiting somewhat impatiently while you rifle through a mountain of mess, you are only going to gain a reputation as someone who is unprepared and overwhelmed. Get it together, get it cleaned up and earn the title of Mr. Reliable, or Ms. Responsible. Find a filing system that works for you, and shred and dispose of all unnecessary paper items. The world is going paperless!
By seriously honing these skills, and finding a multitude of forums in which to use them, you are gaining a marketable skill set. Employees who possess these skills, or work to perfect them, are likely to be noticed for opportunities or incentive rewards. Take every opportunity in your present situation to get yourself out there. Make your mistakes now so you can learn from them and become a marketable employee in the future.
