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India’s young demographic and its large demographic dividend are the envy of the world. But sadly, only 46.2 % of its potential workforce, who are students today, are employable.
That is because the majority of Indian graduates lack the skills required for a job. The Indian education system focuses more on hard skills like technical proficiency, and not enough on foundational skills such as active listening and problem-solving that make people employable. This needs to change, and the students need to develop employability skills.
The Importance Of Job-Related Skills
Skills help you use your academic knowledge to perform a task. Job-related skills, specifically, help you achieve your work-related objectives. Only when your general competencies and expertise complement the skills required for a job, can you tap your full potential and perform successfully. Employability skills are, therefore, the core skills needed for a job.
Organizations with dynamic work-environments often spend their resources in developing key skills for a job in their employees. They want you to be able to work constructively with others and ultimately become a reliable employee. A typical job skills list includes foundational skills, hard skills, and domain-general/specific skills.
Skills Needed For A Job
An ideal job skills list should prepare you for any job. If you learn the necessary skills for a job, then you’re ready for the ever-changing job market. This is because job-related skills are universal and transferable. Here are a few key skills for a job:
1. Communication Skills
Effective communication and active listening are key skills for any job. People appreciate it if you get straight to the point. This is why you should organize your thoughts and tailor your messages before you approach others. Understand the motivation behind your message and deliver your ideas with precision.
2. Teamwork Skills
Employers encourage teamwork because it brings out the best in employees. It’s one of the most essential skills required for a job. A successful team player is someone who can build positive working relationships. The ability to manage others, delegate, and work collaboratively are the signs of a reliable employee.
3. Interpersonal Skills
If you can persuade your co-workers about the validity of your ideas, then you know how to effectively relate to them. Harappa Education’s Speaking Effectively course helps you use facts, logic and emotion to communicate effectively. The Rule of Three teaches you how to make your messages impactful and memorable.
4. Motivational Skills
Every profession has its ups and downs. It can get exhausting at times, but a motivated employee doesn’t give up without a fight. Be a fighter who finds a way out even when it gets tough. Find coping mechanisms and keep yourself motivated. Surround yourself with people who appreciate your enthusiasm.
5. Analytical Skills
Performing excellently is a key skill for a job, but you should understand your organization’s needs as well. Taking pains to learn about its mission and vision will help you understand what it is hoping to achieve. Find out what makes your company tick and how you can help further its cause.
Conclusion
As a graduate, learn the fundamental difference between employment and employability. Academic qualifications can jump-start your career but they don’t always prepare you to do well in your job.
Make your own job skills list and start building your employability skill-set. Make use of the facilities and opportunities available at your educational institutes to develop the key skills needed for a job. Get involved in extracurricular activities, internship programs, conferences, and exchange programs as they can provide you with significant opportunities to broaden your skillset. Work for non-profit organizations if possible. Build a smart resume and focus on the skills required for a job. After all, the best investment you can make is in yourself.
Explore the skills & topics such as Social Skills, How to Improve Social Skills, Conversation Skills & Power of Education from our Harappa Diaries blog section and be workplace ready.
