By Sanandi Sachdeva, Assistant Professor, Jaipuria Institute of Management
Imagine this—two candidates walk into an interview. Both have the same degree, same experience, and similar resumes. Yet, one gets hired while the other doesn’t. Why?
Because employability today isn’t just about qualifications—it’s about how well you adapt, communicate, and think critically in a rapidly evolving job market. With industries transforming due to AI, automation, and digital advancements, the rules of employability are shifting.
So, how can you stand out and future-proof your career? Let’s explore the key skills and insights that make candidates truly employable in today’s world.
First Impressions Are Made in Just 7 Seconds: Recruiters take just 7 seconds to form an opinion about a candidate. According to studies, your body language, confidence, and energy during that first handshake or virtual greeting can make or break your chances.
Tip: Walk in with confidence, maintain eye contact, and exude a positive attitude—because first impressions set the stage for the rest of the interview.
85% of Future Jobs Don’t Exist Yet: Yes, you read that right! A Dell Technologies report suggests that 85% of jobs in 2030 haven’t been invented yet. With AI, automation, and digital transformation reshaping industries, the ability to adapt, learn, and unlearn will define employability.
Tip: Focus on building transferable skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and digital literacy rather than just technical expertise. Lifelong learning is the key to career resilience.
Emotional Intelligence (EQ) Beats IQ: According to CareerBuilder, 71% of employers prefer high Emotional Intelligence (EQ) over IQ. Why? Because:
- Emotionally intelligent employees handle stress better
- They collaborate effectively and bring positive energy to the workplace
- They navigate workplace challenges with ease
Tip: Develop self-awareness, empathy, and strong communication skills. Being able to manage emotions and relationships at work is a major competitive advantage.
The Power of Storytelling in Interviews: Did you know that candidates who frame their experiences as stories are 22 times more memorable than those who simply list their achievements?
Rather than saying, “I worked on a project,” say: “I solved a critical business challenge by identifying gaps, collaborating with teams, and implementing a solution that increased efficiency by 30%.”
Tip: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to make your experiences compelling and leave a lasting impression on recruiters.
Final Takeaway: Show Your Value, Not Just Your Resume
In today’s fast-changing world, employability is not about what you know—it’s about what you can do with what you know.
- Adapt to new challenges
- Master communication & emotional intelligence
- Be ready for jobs that don’t even exist yet
- Tell your story in a way that highlights impact
Prepare, practice, and showcase your true value! Because the future of work belongs to those who are ready to evolve with it.
Want to boost your career prospects? Stay tuned for more insights from Jaipuria Institute of Management, Ghaziabad on how to future-proof your skills and stay ahead in the job market!
