Finding a job is tough. You send out applications, tweak your CV a hundred times, and still feel like you’re shouting into the void. So what actually gives you an edge? It’s not always about having the perfect experience or a fancy degree.
Essential Skills to Boost Your Employability
CPR Certification
You’d be surprised how many employers value CPR Certification. It’s not just for lifeguards or nurses. If you’re applying for jobs where you’re around people a lot like retail, childcare, hospitality, or any busy workplace. It shows you’re calm in emergencies and willing to take responsibility. It also tells them you think ahead and take training seriously. Even if they don’t ask for it, it’s one of those quiet, impressive extras that can make you look like someone who adds real value.
Digital Basics
You don’t have to be a tech genius, but you should be able to handle the basics. That means knowing how to send a proper email, update a shared calendar, jump on a video call, or use tools like Google Drive, Excel, or even Canva. Loads of jobs expect you to be confident with the everyday stuff. If they see you’ve already got those skills, that’s one less thing they have to train you on. It makes you look capable and independent.
People Skills
This is one of those things every employer wants but rarely explains well. It’s about how you work with others. Can you stay calm when things get stressful? Can you deal with a difficult customer without losing it? Can you work in a team without causing drama? Being friendly, helpful, and easy to get along with goes a long way. If people like working with you, that’s a win for any team.
Writing Counts
Even if the job doesn’t involve writing all day, you’ll still need to write now and then. That might be emails, notes, instructions, or updates. Being able to write clearly and get your point across without a load of waffle is a proper skill. Good writing shows you think clearly. It also shows professionalism without trying too hard. If you can write like a normal person and still make sense, you’re ahead of most people.
Problem Solving
This doesn’t mean you have to fix the world. It just means you don’t freeze when things go wrong. You spot issues and try to sort them. Employers love people who can say, “I noticed this wasn’t working, so I tried this.” It shows initiative, and it saves them time. Even small fixes make a big difference.
Time Management
You don’t need a fancy planner or colour-coded calendar to prove you’re organised. Just being the kind of person who shows up on time, keeps track of tasks, and doesn’t miss deadlines is a massive plus. It tells people they can count on you. And that’s something every manager wants on their team.
Willing To Learn
No one walks into a job knowing everything. But if you’re open to learning, willing to ask questions, and not afraid to try something new, that attitude will take you far. Being coachable matters just as much as having the skills. If you’ve got the right mindset, employers know they can teach you the rest.
Conclusion
So, while your CV might highlight your main qualifications, it’s these often-overlooked soft skills and quiet certifications that can truly set you apart. From knowing how to react in a crisis with CPR certification to simply showing up on time with solid time management, these abilities tell a powerful story. They signal that you’re not just capable, but also proactive, reliable, and ready to be a valuable asset to any team. Focus on honing these fundamental skills, and you’ll find yourself not just getting hired, but truly thriving in any professional environment.
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