As students approach graduation, they often find themselves facing a competitive job market, where having the right skills can make all the difference in securing a successful career. While academic knowledge is undoubtedly valuable, it is equally important for students to develop practical skills to help them confidently navigate the professional world.
Here are top 5 skills that every student should acquire before leaving the four walls of any university
1. Personal branding
Since employers increasingly rely on online platforms to screen candidates, personal branding has become vital. Building a strong personal brand helps students differentiate themselves from their peers and showcase their unique skills and expertise. A study conducted by LinkedIn found that having a strong personal brand increases the likelihood of being hired by 50%.
Even before graduation, students should begin to focus on creating a professional online presence, highlighting their accomplishments, engaging in industry-related discussions, and cultivating a network of connections.
2. Leveraging social media to get the jobs you want
Social media platforms offer students a powerful tool to connect with potential employers, showcase their skills, and gain industry insights. A survey by CareerBuilder revealed that 70% of employers use social media to screen candidates during the hiring process. Students should learn to leverage social media strategically by creating a professional profile, engaging with industry influencers, sharing relevant content, and actively participating in online communities.
By doing so, they can increase their visibility, demonstrate their expertise, and even uncover job opportunities that may not be advertised through traditional channels.
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3. How to succeed at interviews
Acing job interviews requires a combination of preparation, confidence, and effective communication skills. Research studies have found that found that interviewers typically form their opinion of a candidate within the first 15 minutes, less than halfway through the scheduled interview time. Students should practice answering common interview questions, conduct research on the company, and develop a compelling elevator pitch that succinctly highlights their qualifications.
Additionally, mastering non-verbal cues such as maintaining eye contact and displaying positive body language can significantly impact interview success.
4. Effective email writing
In an era dominated by digital communication, the ability to write effective emails is an essential skill. Poorly written emails can lead to miscommunication, wasted time, and even damaged professional relationships. Students should learn to compose clear, concise, and professional emails that convey their message effectively, fostering productivity and building a positive image.
5. Salary negotiation
Lastly, salary negotiation is a skill which is often overlooked but crucial for career advancement. According to a survey conducted by Glassdoor, nearly 59% of employees accepted the salary they were offered without negotiating. Learning how to negotiate effectively can result in substantial financial gains over the course of one’s career.
Students should research industry salary ranges, understand their own market value, and be prepared to articulate their worth when discussing compensation with potential employers.
In conclusion, the journey from student life to the labour market can be a challenging transition. Graduating without acquiring these essential skills may make it a little difficult to thrive in the professional world. Therefore, it is crucial for students to proactively seek opportunities to gain practical experience, whether through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work, before graduation. Practical knowledge and skills acquired through real-world experiences often prove to be more valuable than only classroom education.
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