10 Skills in High Demand in the Kansas City Region

Skills in high demand

 

As one of the leading employment agencies in Kansas City, Morgan Hunter knows when it comes to getting hired for your next job, it’s important to have the right education and experience. However, today’s employers look far beyond credentials for high demand skills they know will help a candidate succeed once on the job.

What are they – so you can demonstrate them and improve your odds of landing your dream job? Here’s a look at 10:

1. The ability to communicate.

No matter what field you work in or career level you’re at, excellent communication skills are vital to success. And you need to be able to not only listen well and present your ideas articulately but also showcase strong writing skills.

Job search tip: To highlight your communication skills, be a good listener during the interview. Keep your answers short and simple; don’t ramble on. Also, make sure any emails you send to the hiring manager are complete and error-free.

2. Problem-solving skills.

Employers don’t want to have to hold the hands of their employees. That’s why, if you’re going to make an important contribution, you need to be a good problem solver. That means using your creative and reasoning skills, as well as tapping into past experiences, to solve problems at work.

Job search tip: Showcase problem-solving skills on your resume or in an interview by discussing an issue you identified at work, and how you proposed and implemented an effective solution.

3. Strong work ethic.

You can be intelligent, experienced and smart – but if you don’t have a strong work ethic, you won’t last long in your next job. Employers want people who are willing to step up and do what it takes to get the job done. They want those who are dependable, confident, and motivated to succeed.

Job search tip: Make sure your resume and cover letter are completely free of mistakes. Also, don’t use exaggerated language to describe your background or skills set.

4. Ability to collaborate.

In most jobs, you typically have to work together as a team. As a result, employers are looking for those new hires who can collaborate, relate to peers and managers, manage conflict in a productive way, and bring out the best in others.

Job search tip: During your interview, talk about a project that required input from peers and company leaders at different levels and how you completed it successfully.

5. A love of learning.

With the economy and industries constantly changing and evolving, it’s important to be able to learn new skills and adapt quickly.

Job search tip: In an interview, talk about new classes or seminars you’ve enrolled in, or any career-related books or publications you read to stay in the know.

6. Strong computer skills.

It should go without saying, but employers need people who have at least a basic competency with computers and software pertaining to their industry.

Job search tip: Make sure you call out any relevant skills you have in a “Computer Proficiencies” or “Technical Skills” section of your resume.

7. Adaptability.

Companies are rapidly evolving in today’s tech-driven world. If you want to stay competitive, you have to change with the times and learn new technologies.

Job search tip: On your resume, in your cover letter, or during the interview, give an example of a sudden change in your last job – and how you adapted.

8. Emotional intelligence.

EI is the ability to identify, assess, and control the emotions of yourself and others. It’s sought after these days because those with a high EI typically understand issues and can quickly communicate and address concerns with others.

Job search tip: To showcase your high EI in an interview, talk about your relationship building skills. Discuss a time you had to handle a disagreement or conflict and how you achieved a successful result.

9. Integrity.

Employers want people who are honest and straightforward; who adhere to company practices and protocols; who always maintain confidentiality; and who will call out questionable behavior.

Job search tip: Be upfront with hiring managers during the search process. Always be respectful to all those you encounter when you interview. Be honest and don’t embellish your skills on your resume or during interviews.

10. Decision-making skills.

Employers need people who can quickly analyze a situation to determine the best course of action.

Job Search tip: During the interview, talk about a time at work when you had to make a quick – and tough – decision and what the outcome of it was.

Today’s employers want more than just fancy diplomas. They want people who can deliver results. Follow these tips to show employers that you have the high demand skills they’re after – and what it takes to succeed on the job.

Need more help finding your next job? Call the experts at Morgan Hunter. As one of the leading employment agencies in Kansas City, we provide the personal attention that sets us apart from other employment agencies. We spend time one-on-one, speaking to you about what you want. We ask questions that go beyond experience to career aspirations and interests, enabling us to connect you with the jobs that are the best fit for you. Contact us today to learn more.