Which skills are most in-demand for 2023?

These are the skills you should be looking to demonstrate at interview in 2023 

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on Robert Half

Teamwork 

Research for the 2023 Salary Guide shows that 32% of employers chose teamwork as the skill that is most important to them; this isn’t really surprising as someone who can collaborate successfully within a team is integral to the wider success of the company.

Challenges are common in every workplace, but any stressful situation can be overcome when team members confront it together, using their specific expertise to figure out a solution. There are plenty of ways to show off your teamworking skills, including:

• Actively listening to your colleagues.
• Taking any concerns or ideas on board.
• Creating a positive and supportive environment.

Communication is key

The second most important skill for employers this year is communication. It has been proven that effective communication makes you a more productive worker and cuts down on issues that arise because of potential miscommunication.

Developing an efficient communication manner helps you articulate yourself, understand what your colleagues are saying, or what they are looking for, and make you a better collaborator and team member.

If you would like to improve your communication skills, whether in person, over email or through instant messaging channels, think before you speak. Is what you’re saying or asking clear, and does it make sense? Re-read emails before you hit send and, importantly in today’s fast-working environment, be brief but specific.

Problem-solving 

An essential skill for senior or manager-level roles is problem-solving, and 28% of employers agree that it is one of the top skills a senior-level candidate should possess.

Those with good problem-solving skills are a valuable and trusted asset in any team, and this skill separates the senior from junior members of the organisation. These are the people who think of new ideas; they’re often strategy-minded, think of better ways of doing things, make it easier for people to understand things and/or offer support in difficult situations.

To demonstrate your problem-solving skills, think of a time when you’ve offered a positive solution to a problem. This might relate to a customer or, potentially, a situation within the workplace. Developing your problem-solving skills comes back to simplicity; take a step back, dissect the problem and look for opportunities, or brainstorm ideas, to solve it. There’s no right way.

Work ethic and motivation go hand-in-hand

The final two skills that employers most look for when hiring candidates are motivation and work ethic. As well as implying that you care about the organisation and what it achieves, a good work ethic supports and fosters a productive working culture.

Employees with a strong work ethic are highly-driven and often lead by example which, in turn, motivates others to work hard. Alluding to times when you received glowing testimonials from peers – or, even better, managers – about your work ethic and motivation is one very effective way of demonstrating these skills effectively and honestly.