Future-Proof Your CV: Essential Skills for 2023
By Foteini Meleti, Career & Employability Officer
When it comes to creating a CV, all students should highlight their strengths and present themselves as strong candidates by highlighting their transferrable skills to their advantage. However, students need to be aware of the expectations in the field they are interested in and keep in mind that they will need to modify their CVs to match the specific job descriptions – as a one-size-fits-all approach is not effective.
The first thing to remember is that your CV is your initial chance to make a positive impression. It is your passport into the organisation of your dreams. It’s crucial to highlight your transferable skills to potential employers. These skills showcase your relevant experience and abilities that can be useful in various industries and roles. Don’t underestimate the value of transferrable skills – they can make all the difference in landing your dream job. When creating their CVs, you should consider including some of the most valuable transferrable skills, such as:
Communication skills
Having good communication skills is crucial in nearly every aspect of life. They are widely recognised as the most important skills for achieving success in one’s career. Leaders have excellent communication skills. Thus, good communication skills help you to build strong relationships in your personal or professional life. No matter the industry or the position, verbal, writing and presentation skills are increasingly important in the workplace. An ideal candidate can have the ability to interact with different audiences and can present themselves clearly and successfully both verbally and in writing. Communication skills will show employers that the candidate has the ability to understand others and in the future, their team will not struggle to work together towards a common target.
How can LSST students develop communication skills?
Through delivering presentations in class and through building work relationships with their tutors. Excellent communication skills, including spoken, written, and interpersonal skills, will remain in high demand. Your accredited degree course will help you develop this through assessments, class presentations and research activities. Remember that practice leads to perfection, and it’s important to continuously seek feedback on your communication skills.
Leadership and management skills
A successful candidate will need to have strong management ability in order to inspire and motivate a group of people towards a common goal. This skill shows that the candidate can set the vision and the path while guiding others to achieve it. On the other hand, having management skills as a candidate shows that you can organise and coordinate resources to achieve specific goals.
How can LSST students develop leadership and management skills?
By getting actively involved with a group activity and taking responsibility for submitting their work. Students can develop their skills by participating in diverse opportunities and projects such as Dragons’ Den and Business exhibitions. Students can also read leadership articles on LSST Blogs such as: Are you a Manager or a Leader?
Computer/digital skills
In today’s job market, it is important to include computer skills in your CV. Most jobs require some level of computer proficiency and basic computer skills like using MS Teams, answering emails, and having a good knowledge of Microsoft Office and internet navigation. Many companies operate hybrid working and may ask their employers to work from home some days during the week.
How can LSST students develop computer skills?
LSST courses are embedded in core computer skills but keep looking at course material and library support guides. Also, keep an eye on job descriptions and see what employers are looking for in your field. Is it general proficiency with MS Office or are they looking at generative AI skills? Skills will be further developed through assessments and class activities and by researching relevant articles and research papers. Further, students also use software such as MS Office and SPSS for class work and assessments – and this practice-over-time approach develops core skills that employers seek.
Active listening skills
We never learn when we speak – so active listening skills can help you to build better relationships and improve problem-solving. Employers will see that this candidate carefully listens to others and develops more creative and effective solutions to complex issues. In addition, active listening can be particularly important in certain industries such as health care, counselling and social work, where the ability to listen attentively and empathetically to clients is crucial.
How can LSST students can develop active listening skills?
Through listening (and talking) to peers, paying attention, and showing interest during class sessions by taking in all the information. Keep a record of what makes you a better listener and seek regular feedback from your peers, lecturers and support staff. Workshops and on/off campus activities, meeting PAT Tutors and dissertation supervisors also help active listening skills.
Next steps
To future-proof your CV for 2023, prioritise acquiring and highlighting transferrable skills that can be used in various fields. A strong CV must be organised, easy to read, and tailored to the specific job and company. Emphasise your applicable skills, past experience, and accomplishments while showcasing your potential value as an employee. These skills and attributes are highly valued by employers and can be a decisive factor in the hiring process.
To book a CV appointment, email Foteini Meleti from your LSST student email.