How do I emphasize problem-solving as a jack-of-all-trades?
My strengths lie in cleaning up messes and adapting to my environment. But I'm not an expert in anything. My employers run the gamut between giant multinational corporation to small school for autistic children.
Example 1: Started working with big databases, so I taught myself SQL. But it's just enough to do the basic business analysis needed in my job.
Example 2: Worked at nonprofit that needed digital solutions, found a bunch of no-name programs that were super cheap or free, yet work decently well. None of them will be in an employer's job algorithm.
Joanna Giordano
HBO HR experience. Resume/Job & Health coach.
358
08/21/23 at 4:15PM UTC
problem-solving is a desired trait as well as quick learning. Jack of all trades is useful, but not typically explicitly sought after. Employers like to think their jobs are so special and their descriptions are so sacred. Cater to that and use your jill of all trades experience to highlight times that you helped the team /company achieve.
Maegan, Nike Sales Rep & Career CoachHelping you know your value to get your next job
1.83k
11/27/22 at 12:35AM UTC
Maybe start by answering these two questions :
What problems did you enjoy solving the most? and which solutions had the most business impact for your company?
Barb HansenStartup Product, Growth & Strategy
9.52k
11/26/22 at 5:31AM UTC
I'm sure you could craft a sentence of two at what you're good at.
Depending on what job title you held and what job you are looking for, there are ways to weave in you talent for...
"seeing the complex nature of problems and then finding and implementing elegant and affordable solutions that not only solve the initial problem but provide a level of future-proofing to reduce the shocks and stresses of upcoming events."
...or some story like that :)
You know the basics of SQL.
-that certainly fits into job descriptions.
You have advance skills at reducing costs for existing software and finding low-cost alternatives to expensive digital platforms.
-that's not necessarily in job descriptions but you can certainly list your problem-solving skills as accomplishments at your previous jobs.
Problem-solving is a great trait to have, so don't be afraid to tell the world.
Anonymous
11/27/22 at 8:49PM UTC
I have SQL listed as a skill even though it's beginner grade. Usually if they want advanced SQL they want Java and Python too. (Tried Python...just couldn't do it.)
