Gaining Skills

You should have developed a number of skills during your time at Sheffield through studying, training and extra-curricular activities and be able to provide evidence of them when applying for jobs. Examples of the kinds of skills that employers look for include: teamwork, communication, problem solving, project management, leadership and commercial awareness.

Job application forms may ask you to describe situations in which you have demonstrated particular skills, for example, your ability to work as part of a team.

You may also be asked for evidence of your skills at interview. Questions could include: give an example of when you have led a group, organised your time or managed a project. Additionally, Assessment Centres may ask you to perform a range of tasks which are assessed against a specified set of skills.

How can you develop your skills?

Coming to University provides many opportunities to develop new skills and further enhance your existing ones. In addition to the skills related to your subject, your course can develop skills such as communication, teamwork, time management, negotiation and problem solving through group work, presentations, written reports and research.

Your skills can also be developed through activities such as obtaining work experience, volunteering, being part of a sports team, taking on a leadership role in a student society, or organising fundraising initiatives.

Develop your skills
Download the leaflet on the right hand menu to find out more about the activities offered outside of your course that will help you develop, practise and demonstrate these important transferable skills.

Think about how you can make time to engage with these activities so you do not get to the end of your University life feeling that you have nothing of value to add to your CV.

What's On Diary

Use the What's On diary to search for activities available through the Careers Service that provide excellent opportunities to learn about and practise skills which can ultimately make you more attractive to employers.

Sheffield useful guide library

A series of guides to help you develop and reflect on your skills (you will need your username and password)