How to Identify Job Skills

One of the first steps to take when embarking on a job search is identifying the skills you have that employers need. Knowing what you have to offer gives you the ability to sell yourself to employers and convince them to hire you. You have the skills. Now you need to identify them.

Instructions

1. Consider the three different categories of skills. Job-related skills are specific to an occupation, such as performing accounts payable if you are an accountant. Self-management skills are personality traits such as flexibility and reliability. Transferable skills are useful in many different occupations, such as organizing tasks and managing people.

2. Write down the different job titles you have held. Include on this list any internships, volunteer positions and leadership roles you held in community organizations.

3. Describe the duties you performed on these jobs. For example, an administrative assistant performs data entry and responds to customer inquiries over the phone. A nurse provides care to hospital patients and administers medications.

4. Identify the skills needed to perform each of these job duties. An administrative assistant needs typing skills, oral communication skills and time management skills. A nurse has expertise in administering IVs, compassion and assessment skills.

5. Link the skills you have to the skills desired by employers in your target occupation. The skills you have that match employers' needs are the skills to cite in your resume, on a job application and in an interview.