Understanding Skills
Identifying Your Skills
There are many methods for identifying skills. We cover three common methods here. Whichever one you use, it’s important to remember not to get hung up on definitions or the process.
The goal is to generate a list of skills. Definitions and process are simply tools to help you achieve that goal.
Don't limit yourself. Give yourself the benefit of the doubt. List everything that remotely looks like a skill.
You don't have to be an expert to claim a skill. Include skills you may be just learning.
Method One
First, write down the title of an employment-related activity. Focus on activities that demonstrate skill and experience relative to employment. You may get these titles from skills you may have gained while working for community organizations, volunteer activities and employment.
Now, list the tasks involved in performing this activity. Tasks are the basic functions of an activity.
Finally, list the skills involved in accomplishing each task. Be sure to include job, self-management and transferable skills.
Method Two
Look for skill words that you recognize in books, magazines, publications and on the Internet. Try the Occupational Outlook Handbook, which may be found at your local library or Minnesota WorkForce Center, how-to books, hobby books, technical manuals, newspapers, magazines and classified advertisements.
Method Three
Network with friends, associates and family. Ask them what skills they see that you have.