Essential Employability Skills Report

Alannah States

The following is a report based on the 2 job postings I found and their required relevant
Employability Skills, along with a more in depth look at my own skill strengths as well as
areas needing improvement.
The two job postings I found:
1) http://www.jobbank.gc.ca/jobposting.do?
fper=F&jkw=office+administration&cty=22437&wid=bf&sort=M&id=21616971&so
urce=searchresults
(Corp., 2016)
2) http://www.workopolis.com/jobsearch/job/17078955?cid=hrsdc
(INC, 2016)

Many skills are essential in a clerical position such as the ones, following the links,
above. However, there are some that are used more frequently and are deemed more
important then others. Below, I will break down the most common Essential Skills listed
or the skills expected to be used in the two job postings above.
Both job postings required most of the same skills to be used on the job. Interpersonal
skills and Communication skills, both written and oral, seemed to have the most
emphasis placed on them. They would certainly be important in most positions, but as
an office administrator or administrative clerk, these two skills would be extremely
invaluable and used across many aspects of the position for things such as interacting
with clients or other business providers as well as working with colleagues.
Document use, especially Microsoft programs are also listed. Microsoft programs allows
employees in such positions to work across these programs to complete the many daily
tasks involved in said position. From collating documents to creating business letters
and spreadsheets, Microsoft use is extremely important in any office environment.
Some of the other skills listed in the job postings are, organization, attention to detail,
self motivation as well as the ability to adapt quickly. These skills are used daily in an
administrative position. From organizing work or mail based on priority, to being able to
work independently and adapting to unforeseen situations. Administrative clerks
certainly need to be able to handle anything thrown at them, and if they possess these
relevant skills then they should have no problem doing so.
The essential employability skills listed under the NOC code for administrative clerks
certainly supported what the job postings were looking for. With emphasis on document

use, oral communication and reading and writing, the NOC report shows that these
skills are likely what employers will be looking for in terms of adequate skilled workers.
I was surprised at how in depth the NOC website went into Digital Technology. Breaking
down the use of calculators, internet use, accounting software and even specialized
database software. I think I underestimated how much technology would be involved,
living in a technological age you dont always realize just how much we rely on the
technology around us to complete simple everyday tasks that we used to do before the
technology was even developed for dealing with these tasks. (Canada, 2016)
After assessing which employability skills, I thought I was well versed in, I can not say
that I was surprised by the breakdown of my results. I am very confident in my
communication skills, my ability to work with others or adapt to a given situation,
thinking and problem solving as well as managing information given to me.
Areas I believe I need to make some improvements include using science, technology
and mathematics to think or solve problems. I dont believe that I would usually rely on
science or math to solve a problem unless it was obvious for me to do so, but I would
not go out of my way to use these methods over thinking for myself and using my
instincts. Also, accessing learning sources or suggesting alternative ways to achieve a
goal. Unless required or having a personal interest I wouldnt go out of my way to
access other learning sources to expand my knowledge. I also find it difficult sometimes
to suggest alternative ways to achieve a common goal. I tend to second guess myself
sometimes and therefore probably do not voice my opinion or thoughts to solve a
problem. (Canada S. , 2011)
I would highlight my skills on my resume through my educational and work
accomplishments, or during an interview by expanding on, and explaining, which skills I
have had practice in using on the job or in my daily living.
All the above skills are necessary in an administrative position because you are
responsible for so many daily tasks. You need to be well versed across the board to feel
confident in yourself as well as to ensure your employer is just as confident in your
abilities.

References
Canada, G. o. (2016, October 31). Explore Careers by Essential Skills: Administrative
Clerks. Retrieved from Jobbank.gc.ca:
http://www.jobbank.gc.ca/es_view_profile-eng.do?prof_id=5&lang=eng
Canada, G. o. (2016, October 31). Job Bank. Retrieved from jobbank.gc.ca:
http://www.jobbank.gc.ca/home-eng.do?lang=eng
Canada, S. (2011, November 30). Employability Skills 2000+. Retrieved from
Jobbank.gc.ca: https://www.jobsetc.gc.ca/toolbox/checklists/employability.jsp?
lang=e
Corp., A. D. (2016, November 01). Office Administrator. Retrieved from
Governement of Canada: http://www.jobbank.gc.ca/jobposting.do?
fper=F&jkw=office+administration&cty=22437&wid=bf&sort=M&id=216169
71&source=searchresults
INC, R. C. (2016, August 18). Office Assistant. Retrieved from Workopolis.com:
http://www.workopolis.com/jobsearch/job/17078955?cid=hrsdc