Think Big, Think Smart - Employers Are Looking For This One Skill
Want to be the ideal candidate and land your dream job effortlessly? It goes without saying that you’d need skills to keep you competitive and relevant. Critical thinking, in particular, has been identified as one of the top skills needed in today’s economy. Thus, it’s no surprise that this soft skill is highly-coveted by most employers. Let us break down why this skill is so important and how you can master it.
What is Critical Thinking exactly?
Critical thinking is the ability to analyse a concept objectively by considering various facts and perspectives to reach a sound, logical conclusion. Simply put, it is the ability to make an informed decision based on impartial perspectives.
Why it is important today?
Staying ahead of AI
Technology continues to advance rapidly in our present economy, with the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) amongst a slew of business automation processes. However, while technology skills are highly sought after to keep up with these trends, it is important to remember that the human touch is still key.
Today Online reports that while technical skills are valued at the start of the digital revolution, it will gradually teeter towards irrelevance, while skills associated with sociability, creativity and critical thinking will be placed high on the list of hiring managers. Remember, the most vital part of a business should be its people and what they can offer.
Helping businesses innovate and stay competitive
Critical thinkers are able to help diagnose problems and contribute creative solutions effectively - a problem solving edge that many employers seek. Business.com suggests that companies that develop this skill well among their employees can see an increase in teamwork and productivity and a reduction in conflict.
Diverse perspectives help to provide multiple solutions that can help to tackle problems more effectively. Employers like people who can offer fresh input instead of stale ideas; innovative input helps the company to develop and grow as a whole while giving it a competitive edge.
Adding personality to the company
Besides innovative solutions, critical thinking also promotes pooling of valuable ideas that can help companies to flourish and progress further. Employers are constantly on the lookout for unique points-of-view that help to strengthen their company’s culture. HBR reiterates that there is strength with diversity - collaborating through the lens of different viewpoints minimises groupthink, a dangerous situation that can be disastrous for any company. Essentially, critical thinking reminds companies that variety is the spice of life and celebrates employee individuality.
How do I master this skill?
Question assumptions
The first step to thinking critically is to start by thinking about how you think! Try to question assumptions instead of taking things at face value. Entrepreneur rejects the notion of conventional wisdom being 'always right’. It cited Uber as an example, which is currently thriving globally despite criticisms that it would not remain in business when it first launched.
Stimulate and promote the idea of curiosity
Albert Einstein once said, “I have no special talent, I’m just passionately curious”, crediting curiosity to his success. In that vein, Forbes also maintains that a “what if” approach to daily tasks or problems will help to enrich your critical thinking skills in the long-run.
Stay updated with industry news
The key to staying relevant and resilient in the face of an ever-changing environment is to be able to be highly adaptable, says Today Online.
One useful habit that will boost your critical thinking skills is to keep up with current trends and news. Equipped with the latest facts and data, you are less likely to be persuaded by unsourced claims - especially in today’s era of fake news. Info-gathering also allows you to compare arguments and form your own line of reasoning for complex topics, a practice that will give you an advantage for future important decision making.
Attending events is an easy way to help you stay up-to-date on business and market trends - they’re a great way to network and exchange thoughts and ideas with the experts of their fields too. Canon’s Think Big Leadership Business Series invites industry leaders to share their perspective on our current economic landscape, providing acumen for both individuals and companies. It’s through business conferences such as this where you learn trade secrets and expand your worldview, allowing you to refine your critical thinking skills.
Critical thinking is an effective tool to deploy when solving complex problems or making important decisions; it’s no wonder that candidates who possess this crucial skill are highly-sought after. Put our tips into practice and finesse your way into the professional world with this important skill!
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