The Top Skill Job Applicants Need to Stand Out in 2024 Has Nothing to Do With AI, Says Workforce Expert Although having the right technical skills might be a prerequisite for certain roles, there's another factor that will help candidates rise to the top.
By Amanda Breen Edited by Jessica Thomas
Key Takeaways
- Job seekers continue to face a tough job market exacerbated by high interest rates and wages.
- Chief people officer at edtech company D2L Amy Clark reveals how candidates can set themselves apart.
Despite the addition of 175,000 jobs in April, many job seekers — and job hoppers — are facing a tough labor market amid high interest rates and wages.
Hopeful candidates might wonder how to position themselves for success, and although considering which technical skills and AI-related expertise might apply to a given role can't hurt, it won't necessarily make or break an application.
Chief people officer at edtech company D2L Amy Clark tells BIZ Experiences that newly graduated job seekers should exhibit soft skills like communication, professionalism and problem-solving, along with the mastery of "traditional" tools like Microsoft Office, to put their best foot forward. But there's one skill in particular that really helps entry-level candidates stand out from their competition.
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That's the ability to network, according to Clark. "This is still the top skill that recent graduates should practice and hone," she explains. "Leverage referrals and connections from your peers, professors, alumni from your university and other professionals in your field to learn more about them and their careers. Ask what advice they have for you in navigating the job search."
Do your research when applying to a company, Clark says — and that includes assessing the connections you have with the people who work there. That goes beyond personal connections, too; it's important to think about any common ground that could set you up for more success in the interview, she notes.
Additionally, Clark suggests keeping your LinkedIn profile up to date, posting and sharing content on the platform and following companies that interest you. Doing so will help cultivate your professional network and allow people to contact you about opportunities.
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Clark acknowledges that asking for referrals, introductions, support or mentorship can be intimidating — but it's an essential part of the process. "In my experience, most candidates find new roles via referrals or connections," Clark says. "If your skills don't yet align with your dream job, look for guidance about how you can learn more. Remember, your human skills — communication, collaboration, problem-solving — are just as important as the technical skills you need (sometimes even more important). Don't neglect them."
