"The new normal," is a phrase that you probably hear dozens of times a day, every day. It's a phrase we all dread, but it's a concept we must embrace because things will not return to pre-2020 normalcy for the foreseeable future. The only thing anyone can be certain of right now is that change will continue. And if you're on the job hunt, you'll want to adapt your approach to address the changing concerns of employers. Here are five job skills that you should highlight because they are needed now more than ever.

Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence is the ability to adjust your emotions and responses based on the situation at hand. Emotionally intelligent people measure their approach and act rationally, rather than reactively.

This is important now because anxiety runs high, especially in the workplace. From your co-workers to your customers, people are on edge and they may react emotionally to challenges. Employers want candidates who can show empathy and who temper their responses even under highly stressful circumstances.

Creativity

Why is creativity important? Because new challenges arise every day. Companies have to come up with creative solutions for delivering their products and services or developing new products and services in a pandemic -- something none of us have ever lived through. This means that employers are looking for people who can come with fresh ideas to meet customer needs efficiently, effectively and safely.

Team Player

To emerge from 2020 in a strong position, companies need to have a great team in place -- a team that pulls in the same direction, supports one another, and operates like a well-oiled machine. It will be important to demonstrate that you work effectively as part of a team, putting group goals first, stepping in to help, asking for help when you need it, etc.

Problem Solving

If there's a theme for 2020, it's a constant barrage of unforeseen problems. Just when you think you have something under control, a new problem arises. More than ever, employers want to find candidates who can think independently to solve a problem when a challenge arises, rather than becoming overwhelmed or needing their hand held by a manager.

Service Skills

Right now, the way a company delivers service to its customers can make the difference between losing business and retaining business. Whether customers are consumers or businesses, people are looking to save money and to work with companies that provide exceptional service and address their concerns quickly and with empathy.

The ability to provide exceptional service will be a valuable skill throughout 2020. Employers want to hire people who can empathize, de-escalate situations, provide service with a smile, put customers at ease and make those customers feel confident that they are making the right buying decisions.

Are You Looking For A Great New Job?

If you are looking for a new job, PrideStaff can help. Contact us today to learn more about our resources for job seekers.