The commercial sector covers a range of job roles, and although some positions require a certain level of experience, the core skills most employers look for are very similar. It’s more about those soft, transferable skills that an individual can use and evolve to elevate the role.
If you’re looking to enter the commercial world or take a step up the ladder within an industry, Quest Employment is here to help. Our article below highlights the key skills commercial employers are seeking, and how you can showcase them.
What is Considered a ‘Commercial’ Job Role?
A commercial job or role refers to work completed within the commercial sector. These tend to be for businesses that offer a product or service, with the aim of increasing profits and customer retention. Examples of job roles within the commercial sector include:
The ideal skill sets companies look for can be split into two categories: soft skills and hard skills. Depending on the position, both can be extremely valuable.
Essential Soft Skills:
Strong Communication
Whether written or verbal, being able to express your ideas and build rapport coherently is essential. It also involves tailoring your language to different audiences, such as colleagues, managers, or clients, as well as actively listening to those around you. Your CV, covering letter and interview are the ideal places to demonstrate this skill.
Flexibility & Adaptability
Commercial job roles often operate and react to consumer or industry behaviour. This means there will be peaks and troughs depending on the time of year or world events. Being able to adapt to changes and learn new skills quickly is a huge advantage. It highlights to your employer that you can handle changes well and thrive on new opportunities.
Stepping Up As A Team Player
Commercial roles often involve working closely with others to achieve a task. Additional soft skills such as communication, positivity and reliability tie in with being a good team player. You need to demonstrate that you can share ideas, understand instructions and meet deadlines to help others and resolve problems. This skill also helps build a more inclusive and productive environment for everyone.
Reliability & Time Management
Whichever profession you choose, time management and reliability are essential qualities. It demonstrates your commitment to yourself and others, and builds trust. Demonstrating this skill via your CV and interview is vital for roles that hold multiple responsibilities. Your employer needs to have confidence that you can not only get the job done, but also complete it on time and to a high standard.
Great Problem-Solving Skills
An individual who not only spots a problem but also seeks a solution to benefit themselves, their colleagues, or their customers is a tremendous asset. Employers also value those who use their initiative to improve efficiency or profitability, or are eager to educate themselves further in a particular skill or area.
Emotional Intelligence & Awareness
Culture is a significant factor for many companies. Employees’ well-being and awareness play a big part in this. Being able to manage your emotional intelligence indicates that you can acknowledge problems, maintain a clear mind and find solutions without becoming overwhelmed. You can also show empathy for others, adding to a more supportive environment.
Preferred Hard Skills:
Computer Literacy
Nearly all commercial job roles operate via a computer. Many businesses also have an intranet where employees can access information, collaborate with colleagues and review personal documents. It’s, therefore, important to be computer confident, especially with software such as Word, SharePoint, search engines, and email.
Excel Experience
Where some job roles will require an in-depth understanding of formulas, spreadsheets and Excel’s abilities, the majority will only need a basic knowledge. What will work to your advantage is any Excel training courses, or an enthusiasm to practise and learn the software.
Digital Awareness
Although having a social media profile is not a requirement, an awareness and understanding of it is becoming more vital. As more businesses move into online territory, you must be able to articulate the importance of marketing channels such as websites, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and even AI software.
Start Your Career with Quest
At Quest Employment, we’re proud to say that we’ve helped secure thousands of candidates into their dream commercial roles. As well as supporting hundreds of commercial businesses in recruiting, onboarding, and retaining key talent for their teams.
If you’re seeking a fulfilling career in the commercial sector with endless possibilities for future growth, look no further. The Quest team can enhance your CV, prepare you for your interview and help you secure that dream job! Take the next step in your career by viewing our current commercial vacancies and contacting us today.
