One of the most common refrains is this: “I wish I made more money.” While wishing is fine, if you really want to make it happen, you need to get out there and make it happen. One of the best ways to do this is to develop marketable skills that make you valuable. Whether you want a promotion, or a new job, or to start your own business, the right skill set can show others that you are worth what they pay you.
Here are 5 skills that make you valuable in almost any situation:
1. Adaptability
Develop a certain flexibility, and you will find that you are more valued. Can you adapt to different situations? Are you capable of doing more than one “job description”? Too often, we get caught up with labels, or stuck in a job rut. If you are adaptable, though, showing the ability to take on different roles, and do it well, or to go with the flow when things change, you will instantly become more valuable as an employee. You will also become more capable and effective as a business owner or entrepreneur.
2. Active Listening
Do you know how to listen to others and understand their needs. Active listening skills are vital if you want to learn how to help others and address their concerns. All bosses like to be listened to, and if you can show that you are good listener, you’ll go far. On top of that, business owners know that they need to listen to their customers in order to build loyalty. A good listener is welcome just about anywhere, and can be a valuable addition to any team.
3. Good Attitude
No one likes a downer. You don’t need to be overly cheery, either, in order to show your positive attitude. Be that “can-do” person that looks for ways to stay upbeat about the situation — or at least learn from a mistake and move forward. The ability to boost morale in others is also prized during times of economic difficulty. Help keep spirits up at the company, whether it’s someone else’s or your own, and you will find that many people are drawn to you, and grateful for your contributions.
4. Problem Solving
It’s good to be able to identify problems. It’s great to be able to solve those problems. Develop a reputation as a problem solver, and you could be valuable almost anywhere. Look for creative solutions to problems, and find ways to help others get things done more efficiently. Problem solvers are always sought after, and it will give you good experience.
5. Solid Ability to Communicate in Writing
Writing skills are increasingly important right now. Emails, social media messages, press releases, memos, and other items all need to be written. Develop the ability to communicate in writing, and you could provide a number of services in a number of companies. Know how to express yourself in writing, and you could render yourself necessary to someone whose writing skills aren’t as polished. You can also develop other communication skills, including speaking and presentation, to show yourself valuable.
Being able to relate to other people is big. I know I’m in the IT field and the biggest problems with most IT people is that you either know a bunch of stuff but can’t work well or explain things to people, or you’re great with people, but can’t get into the nuts and bolts. I made a lot of headway in the industry because I knew the ins and outs of solutions, but could talk at the level of end users, business owners, and IT people alike.
A good attitude is very helpful. I do not know anyone that wants to work with someone who comes to work unhappy. No one wants to promote unhappy people either.
I find that I am constantly trying to sharpen my abilities in each one of these areas. I would like to think my continued focus in all these areas are part of the reason I was made a manager just recently. The continued focus will hopefully keep me as one.
I think dependability is something that people often overlook in terms of being a valuable skill. Perhaps it’s more of a personality trait, but in either case, it’s something that is sorely lacking in so many people these days. Prove to anyone that you can be counted to deliver when you say you will, or even when it wasn’t your responsibility, and you’ll prove to be almost invaluable.
Oooh yes. You wouldn’t think reliability should be such a big selling point, but people can be insanely flaky.
I think my biggest challenge of the points you listed is adaptability. Somehow it seems as though if you’ve worked in a particular field for a while, you’re bound to that field. a good way to explore other fields and gain some experience is through volunteering. Great post!
Being able to solve problems is always a winner. That’s what consulting is all about!
Hi Tom!
I have one more to add to the list: Creativity
Employers are generally receptive to new ideas that can either enhance the company in an innovative manner or save them money in one way or another. Thanks for the great article and twitter posts. Check out my tips @frugal_finds or moneysavingpro.com 🙂