Time has proven over and over again that the skills gap is a big issue facing those who are seeking a job as well as those offering them. For anyone who is not familiar with the term, the skills gap is when employers need and seek certain skills that the job seekers, or their current employees, lack. This has become a grave issue in recent times, as this disconnect between what employers want and what job seekers offer is not in any party’s advantage.
The blame does not fall on one side alone, as everyone holds the responsibility to bridge the skills gap. Employers need to devise training programs, along with other solutions that push their employees to improve. That, however, does not work if the job seeker is not willing and able to learn and grow their skills. Here are four ways through which you, as a job seeker, can help bridge the skills gap.
Beyond a job title
Just because you’ve earned a degree in a certain field, or your experience is limited to one specific area, it does not mean that you are not qualified for anything else. In fact, your niche experience – even if not extensive – might be exactly what the employer needs, in addition to the regular skills that they generally require from all employees. For instance, if you’re a good marketer, your communication skills should be sharp. This is a transferrable skill that is sought after in many job roles (i.e. sales, customer service, etc.).
Take a good look at what you are good at, and check if those skills are transferrable to other job roles and industries. Then, you can search for the job description that matches your newly-recognized skills!
One size doesn’t fit all
Hold on a second! Your transferrable skills can be greatly used in many different fields of work, but that is certainly not an excuse for you to use a one-size-fits-all CV and cover letter. In fact, it could be a reason why you’re not getting the chance to be interviewed and hired.
Your diverse skills create a great basis but they still need to be tailored toward the job you are applying for. Employers can tell if your application is personalized or generic, and your chances of being noticed are much higher when your application seems to actually fit. Create multiple CVs so you can personalize your applications to the position you really want to get! You can also let the professionals help you write a personalized CV and cover letter.
Don’t stop the learning
A common misconception among job seekers is that learning only happens in the form of formal education. This leaves many applicants with stale knowledge that does not keep up with the ever-changing world we live in. While formal education is one way to learn, it is not the only one. It is important to be a life-long learner and to keep your knowledge updated and expanded. The sources of learning are endless! Read a book or an article, use online learning platforms, shadow successful people… if you have the determination, you’ll learn something new every day.
Back it up!
There are times when you seem to have the best skills in the industry with an amazing track record to support it. However, you’d still have some difficulties crossing over to a new job role or industry that requires your skills. The employer might be having a difficult time comprehending exactly how you can contribute to the new territory you’re trying to get to. In such case, the power of words are appreciated.
For a start, you should stay on good terms with your previous bosses and managers, and always aim to get a recommendation from them. Having a testament of your accomplishments will only support you further in your endeavors. It’s the ultimate proof that you are capable of doing your job and taking on new challenges.
Another tip to keep in mind is focusing on results and output. Show the employer how you can get results done even in this new field. Use real example of you implementing your skills to influence the bottom line and demonstrate how your skills can be greatly beneficial for this new territory you are attempting to join.
