Soft skills help you land a job! They’re hard to measure and can’t be listed on a resume, but they usually show up—or don’t—in an interview. These are the skills that help you develop relationships with co-workers and customers, and can set you apart when it’s time for promotion. The truth is a lot of employers care more about your ability to communicate, work with others, think on your feet and work hard than qualifications and experience. Skills and licensures can be taught, but attitude cannot!

Communication

Express yourself clearly in both oral and written communication. You can handle emails, phone calls and in-person interviews in a kind and professional manner, but also know which method you’re most comfortable with. In person, use eye contact, a firm handshake, speak up and exude just the right amount of confidence to show you take pride in your work without seeming arrogant.

With communication comes effective conflict resolution. It’s key to developing relationships with peers and managers to maintain a healthy, collaborative workplace. It’s also a sign of maturity and good leadership.

Critical thinking

Companies are looking for someone who can solve problems, take action and think on his feet. Convey that you know how to be part of the solution, without adding to a problem. One way to show off your good judgment is simply to show up to the interview on time and wearing appropriate attire.

Collaboration

Your company’s success depends on everyone blending their talents and working together for a common goal. Show you’re flexible and open to new ideas and approaches. Welcome suggestions and mention that you appreciate the importance of diversity in the workplace.

Creativity

A positive attitude is really important to hiring managers because it’s contagious in the workplace. Express that you’re willing to accept challenges and handle obstacles gracefully. Instead of getting frustrated or complaining, you should be able to find alternate solutions to rapid, unavoidable changes and help your colleagues adjust.

Work ethic

A strong work ethic is part of your character and not always something a manager can train you to have. Show that you have a history of being productive, reliable, diligent, proactive, always looking for more efficient opportunities. Research the company’s mission and values, and mention them with reverence during the interview to demonstrate that you’ll be loyal to them.

For more information on how to land your dream job, contact us today!

The best positions in 2018 will be jobs that still aren’t automated, They’re for highly skilled workers and require people to really be experts in their fields. They’re likely to continue being resistant to automation, providing good income and future prospects for many years.

Machine Operators

Machine operators, or machinists, work with heavy machinery—either setting it up or actually operating it. They use computers to control the equipment and make sure they’re working well and well-maintained. Certification is sometimes required, but you at least need some vocational school or community college, an apprenticeship, and some on the job training. Machine operators need to have math and problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and some analytical skills to read blueprints, schematics, and CAD/CAM technology. The broader your training is and the more diverse your skills are, the more employable you’ll be—especially if you’re comfortable with technology and computers.

Welders

Welding and ironworking jobs are expected to increase more and more by 2024. They require apprenticeships and specialized training and sometimes a two-year or technical degree. But they earn an average of more than $50,000 per year.

Masons

Mason construction jobs are booming, and brickmasons and blockmasons also earn an average of more than $50,000 per year. Technical degrees and apprenticeship experience will bump that salary up even more. Cement mason and concrete finishers generally earn a little less, but technical degrees usually aren’t required—just an apprenticeship and some specialized training.

Plumbers

Not only do plumbers fix the pipes and gift us with flush toilets, but they also have to be experts in natural gas fittings. Thank your plumbers! They keep us clean and warm and those positions are always in demand. Plumbers need to be detail-oriented, and be licensed and apprenticed.

Electricians

Electricians have long apprenticeships and also require licensures, but they’re always needed, especially as our world becomes more and more digitalized. We can all live without lights for a few hours, but could we really survive without Wi-Fi? Electricians need to be able to read blueprints, install and repair wiring, and diagnose problems.

Related to electricians are more specialized positions such as elevator repairmen and HVAC technicians. These people, who install and repair heating and cooling units, generally need two years in trade school and then an apprenticeship.

Heavy equipment operator

The demand for operating engineers is expected to continue to grow. Since this equipment is dangerous to operate, workers will need extensive training, which is usually provided by the employer, for each different machine. But the pay is decent and the experience and expertise is valuable!

Carpenters

Most carpenters find work in residential building jobs, but there are always commercial and industrial sites that need workers, too, as building never seems to stop! Demand is especially high in areas that have been ravaged by natural disasters such as hurricanes and wildfires. The more technical education and apprenticeships carpenters have under their belts, the greater their pay will be.

Drivers and Warehouse Associates

Even as many jobs are becoming automated, freight still needs to travel from one place to another, so jobs that involve handling freight and stock to and from warehouses or retailers are still expected to increase in the coming year.  

Are you on the right track for 2018? We can help! Contact us today, to see what roles we have available that can help get you on the right path.