Hiring managers are looking for certain skills when they’re interviewing job candidates; and specific skills can vary depending on the industry and title. However, there are some career skills that are desirable to all types of employers, across industries and management levels. In this highly competitive job market, it’s important that you’re familiar with four skill sets that are desirable to today’s employers. That way, you can concentrate on mastering these skills, and then include them on your resume and cover letter, and make sure to talk about them during your job interview.

1. Technical Skills –Whatever personal skills you may bring to the table, you’ve got to know the job! Whether your expertise is in healthcare, automotive technology, electronics or computers, you need to understand how the programs, equipment and tools of your industry work. You need to be properly trained in your field so you can get out there with the skills you need to do the job, and do it well.
2. Communication Skills – Excellent communication skills are the number one skill that employers are looking for in a candidate. Communication skills include speaking, writing, and listening effectively, as well as understanding the emotions behind the exchange. This applies to your communications with your fellow coworkers as much as it does your paying customers.
3. Time Management Skills – In the professional world, projects and deadlines don’t come nicely in order, one after another. Juggling multiple projects at a time is a part of reality in today’s economy. You need to know how to prioritize your work load and manage your time efficiently. Learning how to be flexible and keeping a positive attitude throughout it all will make you even more attractive to employers.
4. Problem Solving Skills – Employers don’t want employees who come running every time some little thing goes wrong. They want employees who can use their logic and creativity to handle the situation on their own. During your interview, give an example of a time when you were put under pressure and explain what you did to come up with a solution. Having the ability to solve complex problems will make you very valuable to today’s employers.

Making sure your skills align with what today’s employers are looking for is the best way to improve your chances of getting hired after you complete your program! When you’re in the process of choosing a career school, it’s important to select a program where you can learn these valuable skills, as well as get hands-on training using the latest technology and equipment being used out in the field right now. Every program at Porter and Chester Institute is designed to give students the technical skills and the soft skills that are in high demand in today’s competitive economy.  If you want to finish your education quickly and be prepared to step into a new career the day you complete your program, check out the career-focused programs at Porter and Chester Institute. The school has nine convenient locations throughout Connecticut and Massachusetts, and has flexible morning, afternoon and evening classes. Fill out the form on this page to learn more about how Porter and Chester Institute can prepare you for a new career!