
Discovering our value is a powerful thing. It enables us to recognize our strengths and confidently pursue opportunities. However, regardless of our proficiency, there are always skills we overlook or fail to recognize. Then when it comes time to optimize a resume, cover letter, or LinkedIn profile, we leave things out.
For many, identifying technical skills comes easily. When changing careers, this becomes more difficult since you're likely developing job-specific competencies from training with little or no on-the-job experience. For most, soft and transferrable skills are still the most often overlooked, which is surprising when you consider their importance in today's job market.
Why? An oversaturated job market becomes competitive fast, and we've seen the results. Hundreds of applicants for one job description. Soft skills have always mattered, especially in today's landscape, where they help candidates stand out. Your goal is no longer to present yourself as an applicant with the skills to do the job but as a well-rounded professional who can effectively communicate, problem-solve, work independently, collaborate, and adapt, to name a few. Employers today want to know we possess these skills, but they also want to see how. This is the difference between presenting yourself as an "obvious" candidate rather than simply a "qualified" candidate. It's no secret that we must find ways to stand out and be noticed. How can we, then, if our eyes are not wide open to the value we bring to the table in the first place?
Introducing our saving grace: developing a Skills Inventory.Â
Those who have been out of the job market for 4+ years have quickly discovered what worked before is no longer enough. Many dive into resume updates, LinkedIn profile, and begin their job search without clarity on the value that needs to be optimized and emphasized.Â
When developing a skills Inventory, they also become a stepping stone towards another benefit of clear Skill Gaps. When asking individuals where they believe their skill gaps are, the next question is often why they believe it's a gap in the first place. There are obvious areas for development, but our emotions can influence this. I've worked with clients who have paid for multiple certifications for different career paths. Plus going for a third because they simply did not "feel ready". When we have clear data that shows where we are at against where we want to go, we have data to work with. We're not wasting time and money for development we may not need, but rather a focused Upskill Plan to help us achieve our goals.
Once this tool has been added to your toolbelt, it becomes incredibly valuable:Â
Self-awareness:Â This process forces you to slow down and reflect on past successes, strengths, and weaknesses.Â
Targeting Applications:Â You're armed to tailor every job application more effectively, increasing your likelihood of being considered for roles you're a good fit for.
Highlighting Strengths:Â You can also emphasize the skills that are most relevant to your Target Job across your resume and LinkedIn profile. We've heard in today's market that optimization is key. Remember this is also crucial when ATS systems and LinkedIn Algorithms can influence visibility.
Identifying Gaps:Â By identifying the skills you possess versus the skills needed for a Target Job, you have a clear roadmap. This also means saving time and/or money on filling the right gaps.
Networking:Â A clear understanding of your skills makes it easier to communicate effectively within your network. Whether you're reaching out for informational interviews or seeking advice, articulating your skills and career goals can help others provide relevant support and connections.
Performance in Interviews:Â A skills inventory will also provide a solid foundation for answering interview questions. When working with clients, they will often hear, "Write that down." That is because in talking through skills, they'll mention examples and challenges from their past. These memories are great for interviews! A part of creating these plans I enjoy. Poking holes in their limiting beliefs about their own experiences and hearing the surprise, they know more than they know.
Career Planning:Â Your skills inventory is a tool that can be used throughout your career, not only to help you advance but also to inform your long-term career goals and make strategic decisions about your career path.
A skills inventory is a valuable tool for navigating today's complex job market. It will help clarify your strengths, optimize your applications, and build out your career change roadmap.
A favorite quote I try to live by is, "Work smarter, not harder." I do believe this can be applied to the complexities in life to, "live smarter, not harder". Where we can employ every trick in the trade to accomplish our goals. After all, it's strategy baby.Â
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