Emphasizing skills during the interview is key to showing the employer what makes you different from all other candidates applying for the same job. In this competitive world, companies seek out the most qualified employees by weighing the skills of candidates and determining how they will benefit the company.
Most of the top companies look for employers who stand out on the basis of their expertise, ability to deliver new growth and attractive personality that enhances the organization.
Skills are divided into three types – knowledge-based, transferable and personal traits.
1) Knowledge based skills are those which are learned from experiences. These may include academic achievement, additional training, attending seminars and other exercises that you have studied to enhance your expertise.
Knowledge-based skills include computer and communication skills, marketing or managerial knowledge, product development and more. These skills vary depending on the field of industry each job candidate is in.
2) Transferable or portable skills are those that you bring to a specific job. This is why interviewers ask, “What can you offer the company?” Transferable skills are important as companies strive to seek quality employees who can improve workforce development.
Portable skills include problem solving, team leader ability, organizing, writing and communication skills, customer service oriented, time and project management, and good with numbers and budgeting. This type of skill varies depending on the experience and versatility of each job candidate.
3) Personal traits determine who you are. In a job interview, the most common thing an employer says is “Tell me something about yourself.” Your feedback is important because it will set the tone for the rest of the interview.
Personal traits include good judgment, well organized, analytical, goal oriented, flexible, creative and many more. Try to sell yourself as modestly as possible within a limited amount of time.
* Self assessment. To provide an impressive presentation, check your resume and list the skills you’ve used for each previous job experience. Make a comprehensive list of your skills and strengths, including personal qualities, knowledge-based and transferable skills. This will be the basis of your personal ad.
*Once you have completed your script, you are now ready to face the interviewer. Remember that employers are interested in your achievements. Use short, direct and clear words.
Although many companies require a unique set of skills, you should still highlight your technical skills in the interview. These skills, which top companies typically look for, include leadership, communication, confidence, flexibility, problem solving and energy.
Emphasizing all your strengths and skills on a job interview will increase your chances of getting the desired job.
