How to Recognize Your Skills and Overcome Feeling Under-Qualified

As job seekers scour through postings, they often feel overwhelmed and under-qualified for a role they might be interested in. However, the truth is that most job candidates possess the skills required for the job, but have not yet recognized them. In this article, we explore six common skills that job seekers may not realize they already have and how to include them on a resume.

1. Analysis

Analyzing data is a skill that every job requires. Retail clerks analyze sales numbers, office managers analyze budgets, and wait staff analyze their average check amounts. If a job posting indicates “Analysis” as a required skill, reflecting on the analysis that you already perform in your current role and including it on your resume can show employers that you possess this key ability.

2. Determine

Determination is a skillset that we use in every situation. Whether it’s determining the outcome of a situation or potential obstacles, we make decisions every day. It’s essential to recognize that businesses value this skill in their candidates. Thinking about how you determine outcomes in your current role is important and can help you in your job search. This kind of self-reflection can help you realize how you make decisions, and you can include that thought process on your resume.

3. Assist

Most employees assist in some way to help make the work environment function smoothly. Helping customers find merchandise, assisting other departments to process their work, and aiding superiors with their reports or schedules are all examples of how we assist in our professional lives. Consider how you help and support people in your current role, and then include those valuable skills and qualities on your resume.

4. Excellent Communication Skills

Strong communication skills are vital in the workplace, and often a fundamental requirement of job postings. It’s not enough to mention that you have communicated with coworkers or clients; you must demonstrate how you communicated in a positive and efficient manner. Give specific examples that highlight your exceptional communication skills, which prove to the employer that you have the right skills for the job.

5. Self-Direction

Self-direction means working autonomously without the need for constant direction from a superior. This type of skill is especially essential in today’s work environment, as many people work from home or remotely. Include work experiences from your past that demonstrate how you have worked independently and productively without needing additional oversight. This ability will show potential employers that you are a reliable and trustworthy employee.

6. Works Well in a Team Environment

Most jobs today require individuals to work in teams to complete tasks and achieve goals. Including this as a skill on a resume can help employers see that you are a team player. It’s important to note that employers are looking for individuals who add value and contribute positively to the team, rather than solely working for their own benefit. Therefore, it’s critical to demonstrate how you have contributed to the success of the team in your previous roles.

In conclusion, recognizing the skills you possess is a crucial step in securing the perfect job. Take the time to reflect on your current and past roles and how you have contributed to their success. Once you have identified these skills, make sure to include them on your resume. The use of specific language and industry terms that correlate with a job posting can make all the difference in catching the employer’s attention. With a little self-awareness, job seekers can recognize and showcase their valued qualities and skills, putting themselves ahead of the competition.