Integrating Critical Skills into the Job Search

The American Management Association recently published a listing of the four critical business skills needed to succeed in today’s work environment. How can you make them work for you in your job search?

The skills are:
1. Critical Thinking
2. Communication
3. Collaboration
4. Creativity

You can include them in your professional skills (again only if you have them and can state accomplishments relating to them) in your resume. You could also add them to your brand or impact statement and your cover letter. Make sure that you can come up with real accomplishments related to these skills.

While preparing for an interview, try to come up with STAR (Situation, Task, Actions, and Results) examples of where you have used these skills. Tie them into your previous work or outside activities. Also, while reviewing any company information, look to see if there are any references to these skills in the organization’s mission and vision statements. Think of ways these skills can be used with the products or services this company provides.

Some last thoughts; while these skills have been around most workplaces forever, many companies are only just realizing the impact they have on company growth and the bottom line. Also, in these days of the leaner workplace, these skills are just plain necessary. Finally,needless to say, don’t overlook the skills and competencies stated in the job description. You may find some overlap.