By Lorie Logan-Bennett, Assistant Director, Career Development Center

In any job market, but especially in a tight economy such as we're currently experiencing, it's important to understand exactly what employers are looking for in an ideal candidate. Your first guess might be technical skills, a high GPA, or related experience that employers are in search of. Of course, all of these are important variables. But according to a recent survey conducted by the National Association of Colleges Employers (NACE), it is, perhaps surprisingly, the less concrete qualities employers most wanted from the college students they hire. In order of importance, as ranked by participating recruiters, these traits are:

-- Communication skills
-- Honesty/integrity
-- Teamwork skills
-- Interpersonal skills
-- Motivation/initiative
-- Strong work ethic

These qualities were desired across industries and positions, demonstrating that it's just as important for technical and science students to develop and communicate their skills in these areas as it is for humanities and social science majors to do so.

"While employers rate communication skills as one of their most desired characteristics, they also report that they are the skills that are most lacking in today's job candidates," says Marilyn Mackes, NACE executive director. " There is such a heavy emphasis on effective communication in the workplace that college students who master these skills can set themselves apart from the pack when searching for employment." So what can you do to develop not only your communication skills, but all the above mentioned "soft" or transferable skills? You might consider:

-- Joining, or even better, starting, a student group or club: Activities will allow you the opportunity to fine tune your interpersonal skills and work on group (i.e., team) initiatives/programs. As your involvement progresses, so will your skill development.

-- Getting (and keeping) a part-time job: What better way to demonstrate a work ethic and motivation?!

-- Taking classes outside your major: It's especially wise to look for courses which will force you to develop you writing and public speaking skills.

-- Volunteering: While demonstrating initiative, commitment to community, and some level of integrity; you'll also have the chance to develop a wide range of skills from listening, program management, and organizing to problem solving and customer/client service.

Don't forget, though, that taking action to develop the skills employers look for is only the first step. It's also important that you know how to effectively communicate -- in written and verbal form -- your acquisition of these crucial skills. Don't hesitate to contact the UMBC Career Development Center for assistance with resumes and interviewing, the primary vehicles for communicating what it is you have to offer a prospective employer.

So now that you know what employers want, how you can get it, and where to go for help in marketing it, don't delay -- start your skill acquisition today!