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Skills Over Grades: Why Employers Value What You Can Do, Not Just Your Papers
Step 1: Why Skills Are Essential for Success
The modern workplace requires more than theoretical knowledge. Employers are looking for individuals who can apply what they’ve learned to solve real-world challenges. Skills such as teamwork, critical thinking, and digital literacy are vital across industries.
Problem-solving, creativity, and adaptability as some of the top skills needed for the future workplace. These abilities show that you are ready to tackle new challenges, adapt to evolving technologies, and contribute meaningfully to an organization’s goals.
Step 2: How to Develop Essential Skills
Participate in Extracurricular Activities
Extracurriculars like debate clubs, sports teams, or student organizations help you build teamwork, leadership, and time management skills. For example, organizing a school event can teach you how to manage resources and communicate effectively with a team.
Explore Online Learning
Platforms like Africa Digital Media Institute offer affordable courses in areas such as digital content creation, animation and motion graphics, music production, and video game development. These skills are highly relevant in industries like technology, business, and media.
Take Up Internships or Volunteering
Real-world experience is one of the best ways to build practical skills. Look for opportunities to intern or volunteer in industries you’re interested in. For instance, volunteering with a local NGO can help you develop project management and problem-solving skills while making a positive impact in your community.
Engage in Personal Projects
Whether it’s starting a blog, creating a small business, or designing a digital portfolio, personal projects show initiative and allow you to showcase your skills. For example, a budding graphic designer can build a portfolio by creating logos for local businesses.
Step 3: How to Showcase Your Skills
Build a Portfolio
A portfolio allows you to display your achievements and projects. Whether it’s design work, writing samples, or apps you’ve created, a portfolio is a powerful way to demonstrate your abilities.
Update Your CV
Highlight experiences like internships, volunteer work, or personal projects to show employers your real-world contributions.
Network with Professionals
Attend student networking events or join platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your field of interest.
Final Thoughts
While grades provide a strong foundation, the skills you develop outside the classroom will set you apart in today’s competitive job market. Participating in extracurricular activities, exploring online courses, and gaining hands-on experience will make you better prepared to take on new opportunities.
Start building your skills today—your future career will thank you!