Looking for a career? Not sure of your skill set? Maybe you need to learn a new skill set.
Think about the things you like to do and are good at; those are just some of your skills. We develop our skill sets many different ways. We learn from Youtube, websites, online training classes, traditional and non-traditional schooling, on the job training, or even life experience. Being able to identify and describe your skills allows you to answer key questions at job interviews like: What can you do for my organization? and what problems can you solve?
There are two kinds of skill sets in the workforce: technical skills, and soft skills. Both are essential for success for you and your employer.

Technical skills

Technical skills are what you need to accomplish a specific task. If you want to have a job with a cabinet builder, knowing how to build cabinets would be your technical skill. Job listings will always give you a list of the technical skills you will need to be able to be successful in that position.
Here are a few more examples to look for and help you recognize them as you job search.
Building and Blue print reading/ design
Equipment Operator
Coding for software and computers
Electrician
Plumber
Customer Service and Sales

Soft skills

Employers are also looking for employees who fit in and get along well in the workplace and that requires what are known as soft skills. These skills are valuable and often the reason employers decide whether to keep or promote an employee. Soft skills are, like everything else, learned. If you think there is an area you need to improve upon, do it. You will find that taking time to improve your soft skills will increase your chances of success in your professional as well as personal life.
How strong is your:
Communication – How well do you communicate with others
Critical thinking
Ability to be a team member – actually participating and adding value
Self-motivation
Ability to be flexible – willing to do, learn and help in any way for the success of the team
Determination and persistence
Willingness to learn
Ability to be on time for work and with tasks?
Lack of good soft skills have caused people to be passed over for employment or promotions.
It is important for both parties involved that teams and members be flexible, motivated, well-organized and able to get along with each other. This helps raise the team’s productivity levels and makes each member feel great about what they are contributing to the team. Having team members with good soft skills allows the company to have a strong and positive culture within a diverse workforce while lowering staff turnover.
Remember that you can always acquire the education you need for any job and get the right certifications and training to make you desirable to employers. Check out our resource page for additional trainings and possible funding.