1/14: Job Skills Intro


If you are looking for your first job or to advance in your career, you will need to show you qualify. Do this by identifying your academic, technical and soft skills and then comparing them to the skills needed for the job.

2/14: Mathematics, Reading, Writing, Science and Technology


​Academic skills is one part of a set of foundational skills that are required for a large number of occupations and industries.

3/14: Computer Literacy


​Computer skills are used in all industries. It is important to show you have these skills when you are applying for jobs. Be sure to include these skills on your resume. Be prepared to show your skills during the interview process to prove you are qualified for the job.​ Take a look at the Digital Literacy Guide for more in-depth information.

4/14: Industry Wide Tech Skills


​Industry-wide technical skills are used in more than one industry sector (segment of an industry). These skills make it possible for employees to move easily across industry sub-sectors. By having industry-wide technical skills, you will have more opportunity for a variety of jobs, rather than being locked into a single career path.

5/14: Attendance and Self Presentation


Make your first impression something you can feel good about when you look back on the situation.

6/14: Career Advancement


​People change careers for a variety of reasons. Be ready for your next move. If you are in a management position, make sure that you keep your skills and the skills of your staff up-to-date too. By supporting learning and preparing for the future, you will help your company stay competitive.

7/14: Communications


Effective communication is important, so that people understand: Goals, so they are all working toward the same goals; The facts for solving problems and resolving conflicts; Instructions, so they do not get frustrated or injured.

8/14: Independence and Initiative


​It may seem strange to say independence and initiative are important skills when everyone is talking about teamwork. However, think of it this way: Teams are made up of people that are working together to achieve a common goal. Each team member needs to take the initiative to fulfill their responsibilities.

9/14: Leadership and Teamwork


​Leadership and teamwork have a direct impact on the ability for an organization to carry out its mission. You need leadership to make sure everyone on your team is going in the same direction and working towards the same goal.

10/14: Positive Attitude


A positive environment is much more productive than a negative environment. The team can focus on working towards a common goal without the distractions that occur in a negative environment.

11/14: Problem Solving


​Employers need all staff to have problem solving skills. You will have challenges in every job regardless of skill level. Some problems are rather simple (e.g., fixing a jammed printer) others are very challenging (e.g., finding a cure for cancer). You can use the basic problem solving and decision making approach when you face problems.

12/14: Understand the Big Picture


​You can help your company succeed by understanding the big picture. Learn why understanding the big picture is an important skill to have.

13/14: Work Ethic


Personal and work ethics apply to everyone. Laws, policies, and rules are put into place to help ensure people behave in an ethical manner. It is possible for these systems and people in charge to deviate from being ethical. That is why it is important for you to use critical thinking and monitor your own actions to ensure that you are behaving in an ethical manner.

14/14: More Resources for Job Skills


For additional resources on how to acquire or improve your job skills, click the buttons below.