Quick tip – identifying your professional skills

If someone asked you what your professional skills are, could you name them? Most people are aware of their skills in relation to a specific career field or industry. For example, software engineers possess programming skills and editors are adept at content management. While it is important to know your technical or subject matter-specific competencies, you also should identify and communicate your foundational skills to your network or a potential employer. Consider your career as you review the skills below to see which ones you have developed and can apply to a current or future position.

Leadership (leading people, projects, or initiatives)

Communication (verbal and written)

Critical thinking (analytical skills; acquire, process, evaluate information)

Ability to work on a team (collaborating with others to achieve a common goal)

Problem solving (how you identify and resolve challenges)

Adaptability (adjusting and responding to change; being flexible and productive)

Initiative (anticipating needs and challenges, then responding to address)

Strong work ethic (persistence, diligence, character)

The majority of employers seek candidates that possess these skills, since they apply to almost all jobs and industries. Hiring managers are especially seeking these skills in new college graduates, so if you are a student, try to find ways to develop them throughout your higher education experience. Don’t forget that you can build these skills in all areas of your life, not just jobs! Consider how you are developing professional skills though education, training, hobbies, volunteer work, and activities. Regardless of your role or specialty, these skills can support your career development now and into the future!