What do employers look for in potential employees? That was the question that was posted recently on a career discussion forum online. Naturally, for each different position, the particular answers to that question would be different. However, there are some common skills that employers look for in all employees, irrespective of the industry or seniority. Following are 6 skills for success:

1. BASIC SKILLS: Reading, writing and arithmetic. Employers are seeking employees who can read well, can write coherently, and who can calculate mathematics in a business environment (fractions, percentages, etc.) Add to that basic computer knowledge (e.g. spreadsheet, word processing, etc.) to complete the basic skills needed for employment success.

2. PERSONAL SKILLS: Can a potential employee speak well? Can he/she answer questions in a positive, informative manner? Can the prospect provide good customer service? While not everyone has an outgoing personality, successful employees can communicate in a non-confrontational, positive manner with their team members, subordinates, management, and customers. Being able to work well with others is a vital skill for success in all jobs. Continue reading →