Six Essential Skills Employers Seek in Job Seekers
Want your job application to stand out? Employers say they look for these six skills.
By Branwen Jeffreys, education editor, and Hope Rhodes, education producer, BBC
The ability to communicate, collaborate, and solve problems are among the key transferable skills employers seek in potential hires, according to a five-year study by the National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER). This finding comes on the heels of NFER’s research suggesting that AI and automation could displace up to three million low- to mid-level jobs by 2035.
As over one million young people are currently not in education, employment, or training—the highest level in a decade—we’ve been speaking to businesses about how individuals can demonstrate these crucial skills.
1. Organise, Plan, and Prioritise
Knowing how to organise, plan, and prioritise is vital, especially for roles with sudden changes and multiple tasks. Christian Townsley, co-founder of the North Bar group, emphasizes the importance of keeping a "cool head" in fast-paced environments like his bars.
"It’s important that you can organise, you can multitask, you can identify who’s next at the bar and remember that," says Townsley.
He offers trial shifts to assess candidates’ practical skills in handling these responsibilities.
2. Manage Responsibilities and Adaptability
As individuals advance in their careers, they are expected to take on more responsibilities and manage them effectively within their roles. This involves planning (like ordering beer and pricing), marketing, and recruiting, as Townsley notes.
3. Problem-Solving and Decision-Making
Many employers seek candidates who can react to issues promptly and make decisive actions. Maria Aderonmu, who transitioned from a political science degree to a career at Morgan Sindall Infrastructure, shares her experience:
"Adapting to each kind of situation" has been one of the most valuable skills she’s developed through work.
At university, Aderonmu learned to think critically and solve problems, which have proven invaluable in her current role in strategy.
Remember that these skills are transferable across industries and can be demonstrated through experience, education, and personal projects.
