Understanding Employability: What employers are really looking for...

Beyond Qualifications: The Skills That Matter

While your degree or certification may get you through the door, employers place a strong emphasis on soft skills that showcase your ability to thrive in the workplace. Here are some of the key attributes they’re looking for:

1. Teamwork

Employers value candidates who can work effectively with others. Whether it’s collaborating on group projects at university or contributing to a team’s success in a part-time job, the ability to navigate different personalities and work towards shared goals is crucial.

How to demonstrate it:

• Share examples of successful group work from your studies or work experience.

• Highlight instances where you helped resolve team conflicts or contributed innovative ideas.

2. Communication Skills

Clear communication—both verbal and written—is non-negotiable. Employers want to know that you can express ideas, listen effectively, and adapt your tone and style to different audiences.

How to demonstrate it:

• Mention presentations you’ve delivered or reports you’ve written.

• Include examples of handling customer interactions or managing correspondence.

3. Problem-Solving

Employers are keen to hire individuals who can think critically and tackle challenges. Whether it’s troubleshooting technical issues, finding cost-effective solutions, or streamlining processes, problem-solving is a highly sought-after skill.

How to demonstrate it:

• Provide examples of how you’ve overcome obstacles in academic, work, or volunteer settings.

• Quantify your impact: “Improved system efficiency by 25% by identifying and resolving inefficiencies.”

4. Resilience and Adaptability

The ability to stay positive and adjust to change is invaluable in today’s fast-paced workplaces. Employers want to know you can handle setbacks and thrive in new environments.

How to demonstrate it:

• Talk about how you’ve bounced back from a challenge, such as adapting to remote learning during the pandemic.

• Share experiences of taking on new responsibilities or learning new skills quickly.

5. Time Management

Juggling deadlines, managing workloads, and staying organised are essential in any role. Employers are looking for candidates who can prioritise effectively and meet deadlines consistently.

How to demonstrate it:

• Mention how you balanced coursework, part-time jobs, and extracurricular activities.

• Provide examples of meeting tight deadlines while maintaining quality work.

What’s Trending in the UK Job Market?

Understanding what industries are growing and what roles are in demand can help you tailor your skills and applications accordingly. Here are some trends shaping the UK job market:

High-Demand Industries

• Technology: Roles in software development, data analysis, and cybersecurity are booming as businesses increasingly rely on digital solutions.

• Healthcare: Nurses, care workers, and allied health professionals are in high demand, reflecting ongoing challenges in the healthcare sector.

• Logistics and E-commerce: With the rise of online shopping, roles in supply chain management and logistics are expanding rapidly.

Emerging Careers

• Green Jobs: Sustainability-focused roles, such as renewable energy specialists and environmental consultants, are growing as the UK pushes toward net-zero carbon emissions.

• AI and Machine Learning: From AI engineers to data scientists, careers in artificial intelligence are becoming more accessible and lucrative.

• Digital Marketing: Social media managers, SEO specialists, and content creators are thriving in an era of online business.

Graduate Hotspots

While London remains a hub for finance, tech, and media roles, cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh are becoming increasingly attractive due to lower living costs and growing job markets.

How to Stand Out to Employers

Now that you know what employers value, it’s time to showcase your skills effectively. Here are some tips to ensure you leave a lasting impression:

Tailor Your CV and Applications

Generic applications rarely stand out. Use keywords from the job description to show that your skills align with the role. Highlight achievements that demonstrate the skills employers are seeking.

Leverage LinkedIn

Your LinkedIn profile is often the first place recruiters will look. Make sure it’s polished, up-to-date, and filled with measurable achievements. Engage with industry content and connect with professionals in your field.

Show Enthusiasm

Employers want candidates who are genuinely interested in their company and role. Research the organisation and mention specific things you admire about them in interviews or cover letters.

Practice for Interviews

Be ready to discuss your skills and experiences confidently. Prepare examples of teamwork, problem-solving, and other key skills, and practice answering common questions like “Tell me about yourself” or “What are your weaknesses?”

Final Thoughts

Employability isn’t just about having a degree or ticking off a list of skills; it’s about demonstrating your value to potential employers. By focusing on teamwork, communication, problem-solving, resilience, and time management, you’ll be well-equipped to stand out in any application process.

Remember, the job market evolves quickly, so stay adaptable and proactive. Whether you’re polishing your CV, networking on LinkedIn, or preparing for interviews, every effort brings you closer to landing your dream role. Good luck!