Before hiring a new employee, there are dozens of factors to consider. Businesses want employees to have a positive attitude, strong loyalty, and compelling creativity. However, it is arguable that the number one asset companies are looking for in candidates is effective communication and writing skills. Why is this so necessary for the job market you may ask? Today, we will explain why your ability to write and communicate effectively in business will never be obsolete.
All jobs require strong communication skills
Can you think of a single job that does not require some sort of written or verbal communication? Probably not. Regardless of the industry you are in, communicating with others will play a big role in how successful you are. Adapting to those around you and interacting with coworkers, solving problems, and taking initiative all require sound communication skills. And speaking from experience, the last thing a manager wants to do is teach their new hires how to communicate. If they have to constantly review your writing and coach you on clear communication practices, they are not focusing on their job, and frankly, you aren't doing yours!
Having well-developed writing skills makes a difference in how you are viewed by others. If it is hard to read or comprehend what you put down on paper, people are more likely to develop negative prejudices and not take you seriously. With technology becoming the norm for communication, it is even more important that we are clear in our writing - including tone, grammar, and style. Every job calls for some form of communication, and one mistake could cost you your reputation and in some cases, your job.
Landing a job or getting promoted
The power of a first impression should not be underestimated! Cover letters and resumes are the first ways you communicate with a company, so you better communicate well! While your resume may show that you have achieved all of the qualifications and requirements needed for a position, a simple typo might make hiring managers move on to the next applicant. Submitting important documents with spelling errors tells the company that you are not concerned with paying attention to detail and you don’t take the extra time to double check your work. Many turn to spell check to improve their writing skills; however, spell check should not be your go to! For example, spell check won’t catch if you meant “from” instead of “form.” Proofreading your cover letter multiple times or asking a friend to review it before you submit it could truly make the difference between having your resume recycled and landing the job.
Knowing how to effectively communicate also has a great impact on receiving promotions on the job. Quality writing skills demonstrate intelligence, professionalism, and proficiency. Having poor writing skills diminishes your image and the perception of your ability to thrive. The better your communication skills are, the more professional you will appear to your boss - this may be the edge you need to claim the promotion you have always wanted.
Value of productivity
As the saying goes in the business world, “Time is money.” Having sharp written and communication skills boosts your ability to provide growth and development to your company and may drastically help your business reach success. Without the ability to effectively communicate information, written or orally, less work will get accomplished which in turn, makes the whole company less efficient. If you are not attentive to what you are communicating to co-workers or others through your work, it can potentially cost your company time, money, and productivity. By improving your writing and communication skills, you are improving your business, your skillset, and your boss’s satisfaction!
What are your biggest struggles with communication? What skills are you going to improve on in 2016? Fine-tuning your writing and communication skills is always a good idea! Let's talk about how you can improve your writing skills or discover more about Ways to Improve Your Content!
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