Tech skills are a requirement for many job searches, so it’s important to be able to confidently discuss these in your resume and in your interview. Tech skills can be anything from using a particular software program to operating equipment.
The following are examples of technical skills that are in demand and will likely continue to be so in the future: POS systems, website development and virtual technology.
Analytical Mind
Often seen as one of the most important soft skills for professionals to possess, analytical thinking is the ability to take in information and think logically. The best analytical minds can detect patterns in data, identify issues and make informed decisions that drive progress.
Using communication skills, analysts can explain complex analysis to their teams in digestible pieces. For example, they might use screenshots and asynchronous video communications to describe how they resolved an issue that caused excessive help desk ticket volumes.
Adding examples of how you applied your analytical thinking in past roles can demonstrate the importance of this skill to hiring managers. For example, you might mention how you used SQL queries to extract data and create reports that helped your team decrease surplus spending by 13% MoM.
Problem-Solving Skills
Problem-solving is a skill that is important no matter your job role. Your employer wants to know that you can assess and evaluate a given situation, identify possible solutions, and act on those solutions.
While it’s not realistic to expect you to solve a major business issue on your first day in the office, interviewers are looking for evidence that you can handle issues as they arise. You may be asked to give examples of overcoming a challenge in your previous jobs, such as diffusing a difficult customer or finding creative ways to boost sales numbers.
The best way to demonstrate problem-solving skills is through a pre-employment skills test. This provides a more objective, quantified measure than an interview with an HR rep. Skills tests are also a more effective way for hiring managers to gauge non-technical problem-solving skills, such as communication and creativity.
Communication Skills
Whether you’re on the helpdesk answering customer questions or presenting the findings of a cybersecurity audit, you’ll need to communicate with your peers and other people outside your discipline. Having good written communication skills is essential, and that includes writing emails and composing user manuals or wikis.
You’ll also need to be able to speak clearly, especially if you work with customers or clients. Having great technical skills won’t matter if you can’t convey them to others.
Tech professionals need to stay open to learning new technology skills. This will keep them up-to-date with their industry and make them more attractive to employers for promotions or job opportunities. For example, being able to quickly learn and master social media tools is highly sought after.
Networking Skills
Networking skills are vital for any job, but they’re especially crucial when it comes to tech. Whether it’s attending industry events or engaging in online communities, networking allows you to connect with people who can offer you emotional support and mentorship, as well as professional guidance.
Technical skills include the programs and software you’ll use in your role. For example, many jobs require a high level of proficiency in Microsoft Excel (for performing comparative analyses and VLOOKUPs), Google Sheets, or other spreadsheet software.
Other examples of technical skills include knowledge of coding and web development, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and data science. These are all important aspects of the field and can be useful to showcase on your CV or when interviewing for positions. Additionally, being connected to others in the field can expose you to new trends and technologies.
Technology Acumen
Technology acumen translates into the ability to embrace and quickly learn new technologies. This is an especially important skill for tech professionals to possess as digital innovation moves at a breakneck pace.
Among the top technical skills employers seek are cybersecurity abilities, which ensure the integrity of data and digital assets. Also in high demand are coding and programming skills, which empower employees to create software and web applications.
Obtaining these hard-core skills requires the right education and training. Consider a certificate or degree program that aligns with the technical skills you need to excel in your field of choice. Look for programs that offer flexible options to suit your lifestyle and schedule. Additionally, you should seek out mentors and tutors to help you learn the nuances of your field.
