The Importance of Technical Skills for the Modern Workplace
As the world becomes more computerised, it is very likely you’re going to be hearing a lot of familiar terms as the years progress.
One of these is the phrase ‘technical skills’.
Technical skills from a modern, 21st century perspective refer to a specific set of competencies that utilise a pragmatic, mechanical, scientific or mathematical approach to operations. As such, technical skills often require use of specialised knowledge to formulate solutions for complex problems.
With the ever-increasing use of technology, there is very likely to be a consistent and high demand for technical skills to help make simple decisions for complex modern problems.
Technical Skills for a resume
Skills & Qualifications
Whether you’re applying for a position in Information Technology or for a people-oriented career in marketing or customer service, employers across various sectors will expect modern candidates to have some level of technical skills.
This is because most industries have been computerised in some way. Therefore, it will be critical to possess some technical skills as you may be required to use a specific software to perform your job, work quantitative calculations, analysis or utilise virtual conferencing for team meetings.
Under the heading in your resume titled ‘Skills & Qualifications’ state specifically your technical capabilities. What types of software can you use? Are you skilled at coding or programming? Can you manage databases and interpret statistical data in spreadsheets?
When listing your technical skills in your resume, don’t simply state ‘research’ or ‘data configuration’. Elaborate specifically. For example, what type of data can you work with – qualitative or quantitative? What type of research are you competent at – primary, secondary? Can you also use any statistical software? Be concise yet specific on your resume when listing your technical skills.
Employment History
Once you have specifically listed your technical skills, they should also be reflected in your employment history. Remember, your resume is all about selling you as the best possible candidate to the employer. As such, it is important to have, but even more important to know how to apply your technical skills.
Pick three or four examples and state in a full sentence how you utilised that listed skill to solve a problem for past employers or contribute to a project your company was undertaking. Demonstrate your skills in action to market your abilities in the best way. Select some projects you worked on and elaborate what was your contribution.
Examples of Technical Skills
There are a wide range of technical skills. As mentioned, they involve specialised mechanical or numerical knowledge. They can be utilised in virtually any industry but are more so prominent in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) fields.
Scientific related skills
Technical skills which are utilised by professionals in scientific settings include:
- Research & Testing
- Calculations
- Measuring & Documentation
- Quantitative research analysis
- Artificial Intelligence
- Medical observation and diagnosis
Technology related skills
Technology related skills involve working with computerised systems, networks and apparatus to enhance operational activities for companies and offer storage, connectivity and security. These skills include:
- Network Security
- Troubleshooting
- Computer Programming
- Coding
- Data Storage & Management
- Digital Marketing
- Web Analytics
Engineering related skills
These technical skills are prominently utilised in construction and development of civil infrastructure, offshore platforms and mechanical inventions.
- Structural analysis
- Logistics & Supply Chain Management
- Architectural Design
- Project Management’
- Inventory Management
- Quality Assurance
Mathematical related skills
These technical skills involve significant use of numerical data to present information, aid in decision-making and identify feasible and cost-effective solutions.
- Quantitative Reporting
- Budgeting
- Statistical Analysis
- Financial & Management Accounting
- Sales Forecasting
- Risk assessment
How to improve technical skills in the workplace?
Technical skills involve using specialised knowledge. Therefore, this specialised knowledge must be administered by an accredited source in order to be applicable and accepted in the workplace.
To gain a robust command of a particular technical skill, a candidate will have to invest in specialised training. Numerous accredited institutions across Trinidad & Tobago offer comprehensive courses in various technical skills. The University of the West Indies, University of Trinidad & Tobago, MIC, the National Training Agency and several other business schools offer certification programs in various technical disciplines such as Accounting, Financial Management, Engineering, Computer Programming. They also offer courses in software such as MS Office, CRM, Project Management, Adobe for Graphic Design and Java Coding.
Apply to our courses in The University of Trinidad and Tobago
Internships
Technical skills however, like other types of skills have to be practiced and applied in order to be fully mastered and appreciated by potential employers. An internship would provide the environment for an individual to learn the theory and practicality of the skill.
Online Resources
With the internet as an important informational tool, it would be beneficial to accumulate and learn from as much resources as possible by searching online for references, articles or videos on whatever skill you’re aiming to master.
Practice
Additionally, the old saying is true, practice makes perfect. Being able to put in practice what you’ve learnt will provide a three-dimensional perspective on how technical skills are used and make the learning process relatable.
Above all, improving your technical skills should stem from a desire to consistently improve both personally and professionally. When learning any new skill, a constant learning mentality is critical to process information and keep challenging yourself to practice what you’ve learnt.
