With nearly 6 million Americans looking for work, standing out to potential employers is crucial. Recent data suggests the average job seeker spends around three to six months trying to secure employment.
You’ve sent resume, after resume, after resume. Gone on interview, after interview, after interview, yet the job offer remains elusive.
“So, you have the hard skill sets, obviously the skills that you go to school for and everything else, but those other needs of communication, a lot of that has been lost recently,” said Michael Forster, President & COO of Visium Resources.
Communication skills that are used in office settings are in high demand.
“Having strong communication skills can set yourself apart from all of the other candidates that are looking for work,” said Forster.
Hiring managers are also looking for soft skills like project management, conflict mitigation, public speaking, and customer service.
“There’s a lot of opportunities available now that weren’t available in the past,” said Forster
Websites like Coursera, edX, and even LinkedIn Learning have free audit options or affordable individual courses that can lead to valuable microcredentials.
Organizations like the National Education Association even offer free microcredentials to members, and low-cost options for non-members, often focusing on professional growth.
Now, many Gen Zers wonder, Do you still need a four-year degree? Yes!
“It’s more of what, of the dedication to have a goal and to get through that whole four-year career,” explained Forster.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that college grads make, on average, almost $600 more per week. But times are changing, and skilled laborers are beginning to close that gap.
AI skills are also in high demand right now. Since AI is still new, any experience is better than none.
However, Forster warns about using AI as a crutch instead of a tool, so don’t replace all of your skills with it.
And by the way, make sure you add your microcredentials to your resume. List the name of the microcredential, the issuing organization, and the date of completion under a “professional development” or “certifications and training” section.
If you have a digital badge, consider linking to it in a digital resume.