Sizzling HOT Skills that EMPLOYERS want

By Michelle Tullier, Monster Contributing Writer

Hot Skills Employers Want

Experts who study trends in hiring find that most companies, regardless of size or industry, look for the same basic skills when hiring. Believe it or not, you are most likely to develop these competencies during college. They include:

• Critical Thinking: Seeing the big picture and being analytical; comprehending what you read.
• Communication: Getting your point across effectively when writing and speaking.
• Visionary Qualities: Brainstorming, looking to the future, setting goals.
• Self-Motivation: Showing a willingness to take the initiative.
• Proficiency with Information: Being inquisitive, curious and resourceful, knowing how to conduct research.
• Globally-Minded: Understanding and showing an interest in other cultures and getting along with diverse groups of people.
• Teamwork: Working well with others to achieve common goals.

Chances are, you possess a number of these key competencies. Once you realize you are very skilled, you'll be better able to sell yourself to employers as exactly the type of candidate they want.