Developing Your Skills Portfolio

What is a Skills Portfolio? A Skills Portfolio is a collection of materials presented to demonstrate a person’s skills, accomplishments, experience and attributes. A skills portfolio is NOT a resume substitute.

Why create a Skills Portfolio? Skill awareness Relevance and adaptability Record of acquisition Interview boost

Top 10 Qualities Employers Seek 1. Communication Skills 2. Honesty/Integrity 3. Teamwork Skills 4. Interpersonal Skills 5. Strong Work Ethic 6. Motivation/Initiative 7. Flexibility/Adaptability 8. Analytical Skills 9. Computer Skills 10. Organizational Skills

Do you have these qualities? Does a resume fully express these skills and qualities to an employer? Does a Skills Portfolio? Employers want EVIDENCE.

Some Assembly Required You will need:  A three ring binder  Awards  Certificates  Photos  Writing Samples  Evaluations, Recommendations  Transcripts  Creativity

Some Assembly Required Cover Page Career Goal Statement Resume Skills

Career Goal Statement Cornerstone of Skills Portfolio Concise and Specific Answers:  Why this career?  What is your career’s purpose? Avoids:  “I’ve always wanted to be a…”  Cataloging achievements or lecturing

Resume Attend Kick Start workshop series!Kick Start Call or stop by Patterson 111 to schedule an appointment with a career advisor or peer counselor for a resume critique!

Skills Skill Types  Technical Skills  Transferable Skills Skill Sources  Work experience  Life experience

Transferable Skills Example Subheadings  Communication  Teamwork  Interpersonal Skills  Creativity  Leadership  Flexibility/Adaptability  Analytical Problem Solving  Organization

Technical Skills Example Subheadings  Technology  Laboratory Skills  Patient Care  Animal Care  Agriculture

Skill Example - Communication A person proficient in communication:  Conveys ideas clearly and fluently  Interprets information for others  Teaches and advises  Displays effective speaking skills such as active listening, summarizing, clarifying, and checking for understanding.

Skill Example - Communication Reflection Questions  Do you have experience giving presentations or as a debater?  Do you have face-to-face customer service or advising experience?  Have you taught or tutored?  Are you comfortable using technology associated with presentations such as Powerpoint?

Skill Example - Communication Sample Items to Include  Photos of you presenting  Evaluations of your presentations  Thank you letters from groups to which you have made a presentation  Slides from Powerpoint presentations

The Interview Prepare beforehand STAR Method Focus on three key skills Accept rejection gracefully Professional appearance