# Analysing Work Skills

Having a skill means we have an ability to do something. This skill may be useful to us or to our employer. Some skills are very specific, such as riding a bike, and some skills are general, such as being able to communicate well.

Work skills are related to paid or unpaid work. They tend to be associated with a particular activity, such as programming a computer, repairing a fax or photocopier, pruning trees, maintaining cars or houses, plumbing, hairdressing, giving facials, teaching languages, or selling insurance. Personal skills or strengths may include being honest and trustworthy, having a positive approach, and being loyal or punctual. Transferable skills are more general and can be used in both home and work situations. They include communicating, organising, time management, people management, and physical coordination.

To identify our skills, we can look at what we have done so far and what skills this required. Instead of looking at the activity, think about the skills you needed to get it done and the personal traits that enabled you to do it well.

### What is the employer looking for?

Every interviewer on a recruitment panel is trying to evaluate the applicant's skills, fit within the organisation, attitudes, personality, and behaviour. Your curriculum vitae must have a skills analysis that is comprehensive, targeted to the position, and intelligently considered. You need to create the best impression and minimise the risk of underselling yourself,

When creating your skills analysis, remember to tailor it to the job description and person specification of the position for which you are applying or career you are targeting. Understand exactly what is required of the position. If you are unsure, try to talk to someone within the field. Ask yourself why they are seeking these skills.

Put only positive information in your skills analysis. Your employer wants to know how you can do the job; don't sell your weaknesses. Focus attention on your unique abilities and their achievements. Think about how you may use these skills in a future position. The employer is wondering what you can do for them - so show them.

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