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Skill sets graduates must have to attract employers

With the hiring trend for MBA graduates continuing to look positive, here is a list of some popular sectors and the skills set they require for graduates to be successful.

An MBA degree can open doors to job opportunities in a plethora of industries. A survey conducted by a global nonprofit educational organisation of leading graduate business schools indicates that more than 80% of companies worldwide plan to hire MBA graduates this year. Further, compared to other sectors, a greater percentage of finance and accounting and consulting firms plan to hire international candidates.

This can be attributed to the specialised nature of the skills required to work in these industries. Here is a list of seven sectors that will hire MBA graduates; along with the low-down on the specific skills demanded by each sector.

CONSULTING

- Communication Skills:

While this is the most basic skill required by any MBA graduate, it is particularly essential in the consulting sector. Being articulate and being able to communicate clearly with clients is indispensable to understand client demands and deliver accordingly.

- Analytical Skills:

Consultants must be able to understand problems and come up with appropriate solutions. This requires analytical skills and logical thinking.

- Commercial Awareness:

This could possibly be one of the most important skills MBA graduates must develop if they wish to make a career in the consulting industry. They must understand the market a company operates in and be aware of competition and current affairs, and know how it impacts the business environment.

BANKING AND FINANCIAL SERVICES INDUSTRY (BFSI)

- A Strong Grasp of Mathematics:

This skill is vital for accurate and extensive mathematical and accounting evaluation.

MBA graduates, who wish to pursue a career in this industry, must possess strong skills to analyse and organise data.

- Analytical Thinking: 

Strong analytical skills are necessary to spot trends and assess the pros and cons of a particular course of action.

- Grasping New Concepts Quickly:

Be it assimilating new information or data, meeting a new client, or managing a project, those who opt for a career in finance and accounting must understand new concepts quickly and stay abreast of latest trends.

MANUFACTURING

- Interpersonal Skills:

Strong interpersonal skills are critical to resolve conflicts and communicate effectively both internally (employees and managers) and externally (clients and suppliers).

- Innovative Thinking:

The manufacturing industry demands innovative thinking as a means to embrace change.MBA graduates in this sector must be capable of `out-ofthe-box′ thinking and problem solving, and should be capable of introducing better ways to do things.

- Leadership Skills:

This skill is crucial to gain the trust and confidence of colleagues and associates as a leader; identify goals and set targets for the self and the team.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

- Strategising Skills:

MBA graduates who wish to have a fulfilling career in this industry must be well-versed with strategising and planning. This would include studying market trends and competitors and devising appropriate strategies to suit business needs.

- Digital Skills:

Apart from the myriad skills, MBA graduates are expected to possess, this skill is fundamental for those making a move in this sector. Having sound technological and digital knowledge is an absolute necessity.

- Global Mindset:

Professionals must possess a global mindset. This not only refers to having the necessary technical skills, but also skills that are required for operating effectively in an international environment.

HEALTHCARE AND PHARMACEUTICALS

- People Skills:

This skill is of utmost importance in the healthcare industry. Healthcare professionals must be able to communicate effectively as it involves talking to suppliers and dealing with patients in case of hospital management.

- Entrepreneur Skills:

Having an entrepreneurial mindset will help in effectively analysing a situation.It will further help professionals ask the right kinds of questions and accustom them to uncertainty.

- Analytical and Decision-making Skills:

A large part of the job of an MBA graduate in this sector will revolve around analysing consumer behaviour and making wellinformed decisions, such as better ways to manage healthcare costs, ideas that promote healthier behaviour, and more.

ENERGY AND UTILITIES

- Networking Skills:

The energy and utilities industry is thriving and it is essential that B-school graduates possess strong networking skills. You need to learn more about the industry and aim to make key contacts that can help further your career in this sector.

- In Depth Understanding:

MBAs must be able to distinguish between the variances and not just focus on macro-level industry challenges, but also evaluate their understanding of the nuances of the business.

- Decision-Making Skills:

Graduates must keep track of trends and industry news to be able to make the right decision.

CONSUMER AND INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

- Marketing Skills:

B-school grads in this industry must possess the `gift of the gab′.Being able to sell the company′s products and services and the ability to market its offerings is one of the greatest skills required.

- Ability to Adapt Change:

The products and services industry requires professionals to be able to quickly adapt to change. It also demands the ability to think on one′s feet.

- Innovative Thinking:

New products, deals and opportunities continually emerge in this industry and career aspirants must polish their innovative thinking skills to deliver results quickly.