JOB SPECIAL .................WAYS TO Stay Relevant in the Job Market

WAYS TO Stay Relevant   in the Job Market   The job market is constantly evolving and recruiters are doing the best they can to find the right candidate for a job. In addition to traditional methods, human resource managers and headhunters are using tools like SWOT analysis as well as behavioural and psychometric tests. HOW you can maintain an edge in this ever-changing, competitive job market. 1 Demonstrate Curiosity If you are seeking an edge over your peers, push the boundaries of your comfort zone, says Aditya Narayan Mishra, president -staffing, Randstad India. “Show an interest in your industry and its functions,“ he says. “Analytical skills and a finer eye for detail are also vital,“ says Somesh Dasgupta, national president, National Institute of Personnel Management. 2 Embrace Diversity With organisations increasingly becoming globally integrated, employees should be able to appreciate diversity of thought and perspectives, says Sandeep Kohli, national director -HR, Ernst & Young. “Employees must be able to collaborate, capitalise on differences, and work effectively with colleagues who are different from them,“ he says. 3 Network Effectively Building professional relationships will stand you in good stead. “Interpersonal skills are an effective tool to stay ahead in the job market“, says Dasgupta. “Connectivity matters, both inside and outside your organisation.“ 4 Use Technology Networking on social media platforms, identifying and following online trends and accessing the abundance of information available on the internet are required skills. “Use the online world to your advantage,“ says Mishra. 5 Interact Offline Some employees, in their zeal to cement an online presence, don't take the time to hone their soft skills. “Don't send an email to a colleague sitting two desks away,“ advises Mishra. “Work on interpersonal relations; the trick is to build a balance between your online presence and offline interactions.“ Brinda Dasgupta ET21APR15