How to Be More Employable

In today's competitive job market, being more employable is a key factor in securing desirable employment opportunities and advancing your career. Employers are constantly seeking candidates who possess a diverse set of skills, effective communication abilities, and a proactive approach to personal and professional development. In this article we will explore four strategies to enhance your employability.

1. Enhance Your Skillset

a. Identify In-Demand Skills

• Research and stay up to date on what skills are necessary, but also up-and-coming skills in your industry.

b. Invest in Continuous Training and Development

• Knowledge is power, so keep growing by taking online courses offered through sites like LinkedIn Learning, SkillShare and Coursera.

2. Build a Strong Professional Network

a. Utilize LinkedIn for Professional Networking

• LinkedIn is a great platform to make connections, share insights, and showcase your professional achievements.

b. Attend Networking Events and Conferences

• Although virtual events are here to stay, in-person events are back! A study published in the Journal of Business and Psychology found that individuals who networked in-person had a higher likelihood of receiving job offers than those who networked through online channels. The researchers attributed this to the fact that in-person interactions allow individuals to establish a deeper connection and build a sense of trust with potential employers.

3. Improve Your Effective Communication Skills

a. Practice Active Listening

• Listening isn't just about waiting for your turn to talk. It's about really understanding what's being said. Research has shown that those who engage in active listening are seen as more competent, likable, and trustworthy by others.

b. Improve Your Written Communication Skills

• Your emails, reports, presentations, and any internal messages should be well thought out and grammatically correct. Sending grammatically correct messages can lessen confusion between colleagues and will reflect a "level of professional competency" that will be noticed by supervisors and clients.

4. Stay Updated on Industry Trends

a. Subscribe to Industry Publications and Newsletters

• Be the first to read about latest industry happenings, trends, and news.

b. Participate in Webinars and Workshops

• Similar to 1b, sign up for free webinars and workshops to enhance your skillset and learn more about industry trends. Typically, webinars and workshops are free, so it’s a win/win.

By proactively working on enhancing your skillset, expanding your network, improving your communication skills, and staying abreast of industry trends, you can significantly boost your employability.

There’s no time like the present to prepare for the future. We’re happy to help you on your journey. Click here to connect with a JustinBradley recruiter.