5 Practical skills that will make you stand out in your workplace

Once you finish school or college, you'll want to get a job. However, not many students were lucky enough to get the internship they've dreamed of. There are a lot of graduates, but not nearly enough (good) jobs that are looking for employees.

So, how will you impress your future employer if you don't stand out in any way? Different jobs require different skills. However, there are practical skills you need to know to be the employer's top choice in any field. But what if you don't know them? That's easy, the best part of practical skills is that you can learn them! Here are 5 practical skills that will make you stand out in your workplace.

1. Writing

Every job requires basic writing skills. First of all, you need to have a well-written CV to get an interview. But once you get employed, writing reports, emails, and projects will become your everyday duty. It doesn't matter if you're an assistant, a manager, or a construction worker, sooner or later you will have to write something.

The truth is, not everyone likes writing. But if you want to stand out and impress your boss, try working on that skill. For example, your boss noticed that you're a skillful writer and wants you to write the next big project proposal. You may have no idea how to do it, but you can always search for project proposal templates and samples. That is your opportunity to shine and get the promotion.

2. Languages

Every company values bilingual employees, but nowadays almost everyone knows at least two languages. Learning languages can be extremely beneficial for you and your job, especially if you're working for an international company. However, if you're aiming at that promotion, learn or master new languages. For example, not many people know the sign language, and even though it may seem hard, there are tips on how to learn a sign language.

Even if the company you work for doesn't require languages as the necessary skill, your knowledge will always be valued. For example, you will be asked to communicate with a potential overseas partner or serve foreign customers. And of course, your work has its price- it's called a raise. Besides that, learning a new language helps you develop your brain further, even though you've stopped growing and developing a long time ago.

3. Computers

We live in the 21st century, and almost everyone knows how to use a computer. Stating that in your CV is necessary, but not impressive. On the other hand, the programs you use on the computer could give you a head start. A lot of people only know how to use email, "word" or similar programs, but using advanced apps is your way to stand out.

Analyzing data is very in right now. But not many people know how to do it. Learning programs for data analysis could get you heaps of gigs even outside your main job. You will be able to earn extra cash, as a lot of different industries need metrics analysis and extrapolating a practical use from it. Besides that, knowing how to design isn't only useful in graphic or web design. Many different industries such as advertising, engineering, and even construction require some kind of design skill even if it's just for an ad or presentation.

4. Manual driving

Did you know that only 4% of the new cars in America have a stick shift? But as many companies don't have the newest cars, the driving manual will make you stand out. If you're an active driver, you're more likely to get the job you want. But what if you only know how to drive automatic? The first thing you need to do is sign up for manual driving lessons.

Even if you work in the office and you're not required to drive the company's car, this skill will make you stand out. It can be useful for other types of jobs as well. For example, if you're working at the food delivery, driving a stick shift car will give you a head start while getting employed. Besides that, being a construction site worker or worker in a warehouse, you'll be able to learn how to operate with heavy machines easier than others. Which is definitely a plus.

5. Smartphones and social media

Everyone has smartphones, but not everyone knows how to use them smartly. If you work for a firm that has its social media pages, learning social media managing skills is vital if you want to stand out. Especially if you're doing online sales, managing your social media is very important.

Gaining more likes, followers, views and knowing how to analyze the data you get will give you a head start in any field. Find out the time your followers are active the most and post your content then. Similarly, find out what your clients are looking for on your page, and create similar content. Remember, you're presenting your company online, so don't ruin the image.

Conclusion

Besides the soft skills every company requires, such as time management and leadership skills, there are some practical skills you can learn that will make you truly stand out on the job interview or in your workplace. These are only some practical skills you should know for any type of work, but there are many, many more specific ones for different fields. Remember, you're not learning a new skill for the job, but to improve yourself.

Neil is a student of web design who enjoys writing a great content. His home is the whole world because he travels a lot. While you are reading this he is probably somewhere other than where he was yesterday.