Summer is a perfect time for a little reflection, as in many industries this time of year tends to be a little quieter. Assessing your skills can not only boost your confidence but also enhance your career prospects. So here is my short guide to how to evaluate the skills you’ve acquired in your current role.
Reflect on your day to day tasks
Begin by listing your daily tasks and responsibilities. Reflecting on your routine can highlight the skills you use regularly. You might want to have the list next to you so you can literally tick off the different skills you are using throughout the day.
For example:
Communication Skills: Frequently engaging with clients or colleagues
Technical Skills: Working with specific software or tools?
Problem-Solving Skills: Troubleshooting issues or find solutions
Managing people: Responsible for three members of staff
Ask for feedback from colleagues
Colleagues can provide a different perspective on your skills. Get them to assess what they think you are good at. You will be surprised, areas where we often think we are failing can turn out to be areas that others see you excelling in. It is also useful to ask your line manager either informally or formally for some feedback if you don’t get this already.
Do some research into other positions
Look at job descriptions or job advertisements for roles similar to yours or the ones you aspire to find out what
Identify skills that are frequently listed
Establish which skills do you already possess that align with these roles
Try to narrow down a few skills you need to develop to advance your career
Create a Skill Inventory (ie those things that you are good at)
Compile a list of your skills, categorising them into technical, soft, and transferable skills:
Technical Skills: Specific to your job (e.g., coding, data analysis).
Soft Skills: Interpersonal skills (e.g., teamwork, communication).
Transferable Skills: Applicable across various jobs (e.g., project management, leadership).
How to keep you self motivated and moving forward
Set Regular Check-Ins: Schedule time every few months to review and update your skill inventory
Create a Portfolio: Document projects and achievements that showcase your skills.
Stay Informed: Keep up with industry trends to understand which skills are in demand.
Network: Engage with professionals in your field to gain insights into valuable skills.
Seek Mentorship: A mentor can provide guidance and feedback on your skill development.
By systematically assessing your skills, you can better understand your strengths, identify areas for improvement, and strategically plan your career development. Whether you’re looking to get ahead in your current job or explore new opportunities, knowing your skills is the first step to achieving your next step. It is also essential for selling yourself in your next interview.
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