At KW Career Compass, we believe everyone can find a job with the right skills and support. One of the best ways to prepare for employment is to start building job skills at home. In this article, we discuss 8 job skills you can start learning at home to get a head start on your job search!
Here are 8 Skills you can work on at home that will help you with your job search:
1. Communication Skills
Why it’s important: Being able to express yourself clearly and listen to others is crucial in any job.
How to practice: Have regular conversations with family and friends. Try explaining something new you’ve learned or done today to someone else. Practice talking about topics that would be okay or appropriate to talk about in the workplace (ex. the weather, sports, etc).
2. Time Management
Why it’s important: Employers value employees who can use their time well and get tasks done on time.
How to practice: Create a daily schedule or to-do list and stick to it. Set specific times for tasks like studying, chores, and free time.
3. Teamwork
Why it’s important: Most jobs require working well with others.
How to practice: Participate in group activities or projects at home, like cooking a meal together or playing team games.
4. Problem-Solving Skills
Why it’s important: Being able to find solutions to problems is a valuable skill in any workplace.
How to practice: Work on puzzles or play strategy games!
5. Basic Computer Skills
Why it’s important: Many jobs require basic knowledge of computers and the internet.
How to practice: Spend time at home or the library using a computer to write emails, create documents, or search for information online to practice using a computer.
6. Responsibility
Why it’s important: Employers look for reliable and responsible workers.
How to practice: Take on household responsibilities, like taking care of pets, cleaning, or managing your own money.
7. Adaptability
Why it’s important: Being able to adapt to changes and new situations is crucial in today’s fast-paced work environment.
How to practice: Try new activities or learn new skills regularly. Be open to changing plans or routines when needed.
8. Self-Motivation
Why it’s important: Employers appreciate workers who can see and do things that need to be done without being asked, and work without constant supervision.
How to practice: Set personal goals and work towards achieving them, like finishing a book or learning a new hobby.
Final Thoughts
Starting early with these skills at home will give you a strong foundation for your job search. Remember, practice, practice, practice! Every little effort counts.
Download and print a PDF version:
Eight Job Skills You Can Learn at Home with KW Career Compass
Want to learn more in person?
You can register for KW Career Compass LEG Up! to Retail Fall 2024 course running from September 16 to November 29, 2024! This course will prepare adults 18+ with a developmental disability for work in retail. When the course is complete, there will be a meeting to discuss the next steps of your employment goals, including opportunities to work with a Job Coach/Job Developer for ongoing support on a fee for service basis. This course is $300 and is passport funding eligible.
Click to Register for KW Career Compass LEG Up! to Retail Fall 2024
You can register for KW Career Compass LEG Up! to Work Fall 2024 course running from September 16 to November 29, 2024! This course is for adults 18+ with a developmental disability and is focused on building the skills essential for employment, creating a resume, interview preparation and more! When the course is complete, there will be a meeting to discuss the next steps of your employment goals, including opportunities to work with a Job Coach/Job Developer for ongoing support. This course is $300 and is passport funding eligible.
