Lucy - BQ Magazine EditorWhen it comes to your job search are you betting on luck or playing with strategy? If you’re doing the former, then you might find that your luck is more elusive than you might have imagined. No, when it comes to setting yourself up with a great career, it is far smarter to be strategic, and that being the case, there are a few smart moves you should be making, to make yourself more employable, right now…
1. Upgrade Your Cyber Skills
We’re living in the age of the internet, where even your grandma is getting savvy with online shopping. So, what’s your digital superpower? Consider taking cyber security courses online. Not only will it arm you with the skills to protect data and thwart cyber villains, but it will also make you a hot commodity in virtually any industry. Because nowadays, the only thing companies fear more than a coffee shortage is a data breach.
2. Master the Art of Communication
Being able to chat up anyone anywhere isn’t just for smooth talkers at parties. Excellent communication skills are the secret sauce in any job. Take a class, join a workshop, or even attend a local improv group to brush up on those speaking and writing skills. Make your words count, and soon, employers will count on you.
3. Get Agile with Project Management
Knowing how to manage projects isn’t just for those with “manager” in their title. Understanding the basics of project management, like setting timelines, juggling tasks, and herding cats (aka team members), can elevate your employability. Tools like Asana or Trello can help, but a certification in a methodology like Agile or Scrum can turn heads.
4. Learn Another Language
And no, we don’t mean JavaScript (though tech languages are also a superb choice). Picking up a second (or third) language can dramatically boost your market value. It shows you’re versatile and ready to communicate in our global village. Whether it’s Spanish, Mandarin, or even American Sign Language, being bilingual is like having a first-class ticket in the job market.
5. Network Like You’re Famous
Networking isn’t just exchanging business cards—it’s about making genuine connections. Attend industry meetups, engage on professional social media platforms like LinkedIn, and don’t be afraid to reach out to leaders in your field for advice. Remember, sometimes it’s not what you know, but who knows you and your awesome handshake.
6. Polish Your Online Presence
In today’s world, your online persona is just as important as your real-life presence. Google yourself—go on, try it! What comes up? Make sure your online profiles are professional, polished, and updated. Clean up any digital dirt, and stock your socials with highlights of your professional achievements and interests. Let your digital footprint be as professional as your freshly polished resume.
7. Stay Curious, Stay Learning
The world changes fast, and the workplace changes with it. Keep your skills sharp and your knowledge current by continuously learning. Online platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or Khan Academy can help you stay ahead of industry trends and technologies. Be the employee who’s always evolving, and you’ll find doors opening for you.
Here’s to a more irresistible you (when it comes to employers, at least)!
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