The idea that a college degree is a ticket to a career is at the back of everyone’s mind. Upon entering the work force, however, one is faced with the reality that the skills needed for professional success are not taught in universities or found in textbooks. They’re nowhere else but the University of Life (it does exist, no doubt about it!) and we are all registered.
Over years of work in traditional and non-traditional jobs, I discovered a few basic, if not crucial, skills for any profession. Here are three:
1) Willingness to adapt
The work environment, whether actual or virtual, absolutely requires a versatile and flexible mindset. Confidence in one’s ability to do and deliver on a task, no matter the size of the job (relaying timely and accurate messages to a manager, for example) is important. Another case is providing the bottle of ketchup to a customer when working at McDonalds can go a long way. An employee cannot be rattled by job challenges. Instead she/he learns to take the initiative in resolving issues.When in doubt, ask questions. In the make up of an adaptable employee is a high threshold for tolerance for job demands and glitches. As Mahatma Ghandi said, “Anger and intolerance are the enemies of correct understanding.”
2) Ability to listen actively
Active listening means one is not just hearing what is being said. Formulating an answer/rebuttal to the question/discussion at hand in one’s mind while the speaker has the floor is not active listening. Nodding, a smile, and eye contact with the speaker are proofs of active listening.When possible, provide feedback at the appropriate time.
3) Courage in the face of change
Change naturally generates anxiety, be it personal or professional. It is essential to stay focused on the tasks at hand. Keep in mind that in every experience is a lesson waiting to be learned. If retrenchment is in the air, remain practical and explore possible alternatives in the same or related field for work opportunities.
Honing abilities like adaptability, active listening, and guts when a situation calls for it will take some time. However, an open mind and a never give up spirit will definitely make an ideal career a reality.