Don’t wait until you actually need to start a
job search. Job-readiness is about constantly evolving says
In an overcrowded field of potential candidates, becoming the inevitable selection for recruiters depends solely on how differentiated you are from the others. You need to be job ready, which simply put, means possessing the right skills commensurate to the ever-changing needs of the industry.
In a detailed report on the future of work, Nasscom has identified 55 new job roles and 155 new-age skill that would be required for the future. Big data and analytics are two major areas opening up and are expected to grow eightfold to $16 billion by 2025. This would invariably call for an increase in the demand for business analysts, solution architects, data integrators, data architects, data analysts and data scientists – careers that didn't exist a few years ago. That's why in today's markets, no matter how long you've been in your current job, you must constantly evolve and be ready for the next gig.
Get smarter with skilling
According to the 'Youth in India' report, the country is expected to have 34.33% share of youth in total population by 2020. This calls for a more robust and progressive mechanism to ensure that a large share of population in working age spectrum becomes employable or job ready. Given the scenario, mere qualifications aren't the only prerequisites, you'll need job-readiness skills too to find a dream job. By 2022, the government aims to skill and train 40 crore people in India, to create an employable workforce. To be honest, that's a fairly ambitious number. However, in the process, if a fragmented system of skilling is aimlessly created, it will evidently lead to more unemployed and underemployed youths, causing more harm than good to the economy.
On an individual level, keep upgrading yourself with new but relevant skills. For instance, those in IT could learn new coding language, or finance experts could earn a project management professional (PMP) certification or those good with algorithms can take up a certificate course in data science. The possibilities are endless, you just need to find your calling first and use the resources at hand to upskill. If you are already working, explore the training and development offerings at your organization; if not, there are many free or affordable learning opportunities that will help add skills to your resume.
Start early
It's a good idea to make college days a stepping stone to enter the competitive job market. Develop soft skills by participating in group activities, take lead; read up, ask questions, apply concepts on real time projects, gain recommendations from professors to build a positive image. This groundwork will go a long way in impressing your recruiters, and peers in the corporate world. Also, while in college, look for meaningful internship or part-time jobs to expand your subject knowledge. Don't be put off by less pay – acquiring knowledge should be your priority at this stage.
Stay ahead of the game
Companies are utilizing innovative technology like AI, machine learning, and analytics for recruiting. For instance, internationally, recruiting firms like Pymetrics uses neuroscience games and bias-free artificial intelligence to predictively match people with jobs where they'll perform at the highest levels. Google Hire, a recruiting app helps distribute jobs, identify and attract candidates, build relationships, and manage the interview process. Many others offer chatbots that automate the process from resume to interview. Keep yourself abreast with information on these to have a competitive advantage over others.
Become a subject matter expert
Be clear of the basics in the subject you are specializing in. Subscribe to industry magazines and newsletters, stay updated with the latest technologies and software. Track current affairs and markets, make notes, and attend seminars and conferences. Find inspiration in industry leaders and top company executives you meet online and offline. Use Twitter and LinkedIn to get in touch with your corporate idols and learn from them. Network. Large corporations prefer employees who have better knowledge of how to put knowledge to good use in the current market scenario than someone with plain qualifications.
Hit refresh
On a regular basis, document your achievements and key accomplishments. This will allow you to track them for your own personal growth and also to keep your CV updated at all times. In fact, make separate resumes for different types of jobs and industries, using keywords that are in-line with what companies are look for. Be aware that employers also look for soft skills like communication, leadership, collaboration, and time management. Your body of work must reflect that, if not, take up a course to brush upon these skills.
Authored by Anurag
Gupta, Head, Career Education Business (India), NIIT Limited