How Do You Spell “Skill”? An Alphabet Soup Look at the Term You Know

Melanie Reinersman
19 hours ago
3 min read

In all likelihood, no job seeker has ever made an employment decision without hearing or saying the word “skill”. Similarly, no career development professional has met with a client without being trained in employability skills (or, more importantly, helping skills). Common words, such as communication, teamwork, leadership and creativity are tossed around as easily as fresh greens on a salad at every edible buffet. For the worker and employer who are tired of using these words, it may be comforting to hear that one quarter of the way into the 21st century, the more commonly heard terms are upskilling, just-in-time skill development, and skills-based companies. The career development professional could avoid getting tired of the word skill by embracing the competencies and values of all things skills-related.

~ Melanie Reinersman, insights@careerdevelopmentalliance.com

Photo by Spencer Davis on Unsplash

FOCUS ON: The Interaction of Employee, Employer and Skill

Employees need to develop their skills, specifically showing their initiative and interest, to be attractive to and supported by the employer. Career development is being redefined by the employer, often due to economic reasons (such as the cost of training new employees). The multitude of development options (such as online courses, certifications, and boot camps) increase an employee's relevant skills. Read more about the interaction of the worker, the employer and the role of skills in the work world.

JOB SEARCHING: Transferable Skills

Not meeting all the skills listed in the job posting leads to discouragement for the job seeker. Rather than stretching the truth, the job seeker can identify and highlight strengths, eagerness to learn and other valuable transferable skills. Read more from BravoCareers.

JOB SEARCHING: What do Employers Value?

Problem-solving, ability to work on a team, and written communication skills are desired in the modern workplace. These three are seen as the foundation upon which efficient, collaborative work is accomplished. Job seekers who aim to develop and market these skills may improve their chances of securing employment. Read more.

ENCORE CAREERS: Skills After Age 50

One person’s story about his career journey can be empowering for those over 50. Yes, current technology is important, but it is not about learning everything – just be open to learning the skills you need. Assessments can help identify current skills. Look for opportunities for growth to develop new skills. Explore in-demand skills. Leverage the skills you developed throughout life, such as your EQ, crisis management, or professional network. Watch YouTube to learn more from Second Act Brand.

YOUR LIBRARY: Cultural Competency Skills

Those who are skilled in collaboration and communication across cultures achieve success at work, according to Indeed Career Guide. Increased appreciation for other perspectives, enhanced creativity, and heightened empathy allow for harmony in the workplace, as well as easier adaptation when changes arise. Google’s top recommended books for developing cultural competence include:

Gaining Cultural Competence in Career Counseling (2nd Ed.) by Kathy M. Evans & Aubrey L. Sejuit

Build Your Cultural Agility: The Nine Competencies of Successful Global Professionals by Vas Taras

Building Cultural Competence: Innovative Activities and Models by Darla K. Deardorff & Kate Berardo

TOP TEN: Skills Assessment Tools

Individuals may make more informed decisions after completing assessments. Tools for assessing skills, such as the Campbell Interest and Skills Survey and the Strong Interest Inventory are widely used even today. Less obvious choices for skills assessment might include the Motivational Appraisal of Personal Potential (MAPP) Career Assessment or the Gallup Strengths Finder. See the whole list.