Gone ate the days when certificates were easily cashed in the Kenyan jobs market. Nowadays, you need to fortify your certificates with the right set of skills to make you stand out from the crowd.
The competitive job market is constantly evolving and employers are seeking candidates with specific abilities and expertise. If you are looking to secure a job quickly, here are five skills that can significantly enhance your employability.
Digital Literacy
In the digital age, having a strong grasp of technology and digital tools is crucial for almost every job role. Whether you are applying for a position in finance, marketing, or even agriculture, employers now expect candidates to be proficient in using computers, software applications, and online platforms.
Digital literacy encompasses skills such as data analysis, social media management, basic coding, and familiarity with productivity tools like Microsoft Office or Google Suite. Highlight your digital literacy skills on your CV and during the interview demonstrate your ability to navigate the digital landscape. In the process, you can significantly increase your chances of securing a job.
Communication Skills
Effective communication is a skill that transcends industries and job roles. Employers highly value candidates who can express themselves clearly, both verbally and in writing. Strong communication skills enable you to articulate your ideas, collaborate effectively with colleagues, and build relationships with clients and stakeholders.
In addition, being multilingual can be a valuable asset in our cosmopolitan county towns. Fluency in English, Swahili, and at least one foreign language can give you a competitive edge in the job market.
Therefore, invest time in improving your communication skills through public speaking, writing workshops, and language courses to enhance your employability.
Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking
In today’s fast-paced and complex work environment, employers seek individuals who can think critically and solve problems efficiently. These skills involve analysing situations, identifying challenges, and coming up with innovative solutions. Problem-solving and critical thinking skills are highly valued across industries, from finance and engineering to healthcare and customer service.
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In an interview setting, showcase your ability to think analytically, present logical solutions, and adapt to changing circumstances. This can set you apart from other candidates vying for the same job. Employers want to know that you can navigate challenges and contribute to their organisations’ success.
Adaptability and Resilience
Our job market is so dynamic that employers often require individuals who can adapt quickly to new technologies, industry trends, and organizational changes. You need to demonstrate your adaptability and resilience to get a distinct advantage during the hiring process.
Employers value candidates who are flexible, open to learning, and can thrive in fast-paced environments. In your job application, CV and interviews, provide examples of how you have successfully adapted to change in the past, embraced new technologies, or taken on additional responsibilities. Showcase your ability to adapt and grow to prove that you will be an asset to your potential employer.
Leadership and Teamwork
Employers are increasingly scouting for candidates who possess strong leadership qualities and can work effectively as part of a team. Leadership skills go beyond simply managing a team; they involve motivating and inspiring others, delegating tasks, and taking initiative. In addition, employers value workers who possess the ability to collaborate and work well with colleagues from diverse backgrounds.
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Given an opportunity, demonstrate that you can contribute positively to a team dynamic, communicate effectively, and take on leadership roles when necessary. Moreover, highlight your leadership and teamwork skills to convince the interview panel that you have potential to add value to the employing organisation. What a way to stand out as a desirable candidate!
In Kenya today, to secure a job requires a combination of specific skills and competencies, among other factors. Employers in various industries are searching for candidates who are equipped with digital literacy, communication skills, problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and leadership qualities.
The writer is HRD Consultant and Author of Transition into Retirement. Email: [email protected]
