Finding work in Nigeria can be very tough due to the high volume of unemployed people desperately in search of work. That is why it is important to stand out from the pack, and you can do so by equipping yourself with some high-demand skills. There are many skills that can make you an employee of high demand, but here are five that are particularly valuable in today’s job market:
1. Digital literacy:
Digital literacy is the ability and skill to find, evaluate, utilize, share, and create content using information technologies and the Internet. It involves a person’s ability to read and write online or using technology such as computers, smartphones. This includes skills such as proficiency in Microsoft Office and other productivity software, social media management, data analysis, and digital marketing.It differs from regular literacy that is offline and involves reading, writing, grammar and syntax. With the rapid digitization of many businesses and industries, being comfortable with technology and digital tools is becoming increasingly important.
2. Critical thinking:
Employers are looking for employees who can analyze complex information, identify problems, and develop creative solutions. Critical thinking involves the ability to evaluate information and arguments objectively, consider multiple perspectives, and use logic and reasoning to make decisions. Because of this, employers value critical thinking—especially in roles where preparing strategy is an essential part of the job. Critical thinking is considered a soft skill, which means it’s a skill inherent in a person’s personality. For career success in law, education, research, medicine, finance and many other career fields, it’s important to display critical thinking skills.
3. Communication skills:
Strong communication skills are essential in almost every job. This includes the ability to articulate ideas clearly and persuasively, listen actively, collaborate effectively with others, and adapt communication styles to different audiences and situations. Having strong communication skills is important to our professional life. All transactions resulting from communication. Good communication skills are essential to allow others and yourself to understand information more accurately and quickly. In contrast, poor communication skills lead to frequent misunderstandings and frustration.
4. Adaptability:
In a fast-changing business environment, being able to adapt to new technologies, processes, and ways of working is critical. Being flexible, open-minded, and able to learn quickly are valuable traits in any job. The more adaptable you are, the better suited you’ll be for a leadership role. More adaptable leaders tend to show greater ability to motivate, inspire and lead teams, and more easily earn the respect of co-workers. They embrace change and encourage others to do the same. With adaptability skills, they can navigate unexpected situations without comprehensive instruction, allowing them to take charge.
5. Emotional intelligence:
Emotional intelligence involves the ability to understand and manage your own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. This includes skills such as empathy, self-awareness, self-regulation, and the ability to build strong relationships. Employers are increasingly recognizing the importance of emotional intelligence in the workplace. It is a high-demand skill as it can lead to better collaboration, teamwork, and overall job performance.
Please note, the aforementioned are just a few among the plethora of high-demand skills you need to beat the competition in the job market. Digital literacy and communication are especially important. You can have them first, then you can gradually develop the others.
