1. Self-direction
Employers are looking for people who know what they need to get their job done. Typical training isn’t an option now with many jobs functioning virtually.
How You Can Build Self-directional Skills
Some ways to show self-direction are starting your own business, starting up a club or research project, or taking on a job/internship where you have to work independently. Any of these will demonstrate that you’re capable of finding the right resources and putting plans into action.
2. Digital capabilities
With many workplaces operating virtually, you’re going to have to be able to use a computer and software.
How You Can Build Digital Skills
If you’ve ever learned how to use a software on your own, like Adobe Acrobat, you should be fine learning how to use other software programs you might need for work. By the way, you should get Adobe Acrobat. It’s free for Dartmouth students, and I’ve used it in both of my internships! For more digital discussion, see point 4 on Communication Management.
3. Empathy
People have problems, and we need to be understanding, especially during a time of intense political division and a pandemic.
How You Can Build Empathy
Being a decent human being really isn't that hard. Some ways you can practice empathy are by being kind because you don’t know what everyone is going through and being understanding when someone can’t meet a deadline, needs to change meeting dates, etc. Put yourself in their shoes, and treat others how you want to be treated.
4. Communication Management
Always in demand, communication skills are important. Now more than ever, communication skills across a variety of platforms is important.
How You Can Build Communication Skills
Some platforms I’ve encountered at internships are GoogleMeet, Zoom, Instagram, Facebook and of course, email. It’s a good idea to get familiar with using GoogleMeet and Zoom, and it’s especially important to be comfortable with email.
I suggest getting an online job; for me, online internships give me practice writing business emails, but more importantly, they give me a space to focus on brevity and clarity in my writing. Another great way to build communication skills is as a club executive! You will have options to communicate via email, slack/groupme, and make presentations for meetings.
Once you know the ins-and-outs of various platforms, you can become a more effective communicator by deciding which platform is best for the communication you need. I would stick to emails for quick questions and updates, and I recommend zooming for presentations or anything requiring teamwork while looking at the same screen/document/whatever.
5. Adaptability
As workplaces consider changes in operation models, adaptability becomes a key skill they look for in employees.
How You Can Build Adaptability
If you’ve adjusted to taking classes over zoom or from an in-person to an online job, you’ve already shown adaptability. Some other ways to show adaptability are simply trying new things and taking on challenges with unexpected obstacles you have to overcome.
6. Motivation
Motivation is essential for making critical decisions in the face of uncertainty. Employers are looking for people with the ability to self-motivate and to inspire others.
How You Can Build Motivational Skills
Much like self-direction, some ways to show motivation are to start a small business or a new club. You can also launch an initiative at work or for a club that you’re already in. Leadership roles are a great way to learn what works and what doesn’t work when motivating others. You can practice motivating others with group projects, any sort of work where you’re leading or teaching others, and with your clubs and activities!
Adapted from https://www.fastcompany.com/90568262/6-skills-employees-will-need-in-the-post-pandemic-workplace
