WalletPop:
Soaring unemployment has plenty of people wondering how to improve their odds in today’s ultra-competitive job market — and do something constructive with all of their extra free time.
The National Association of Colleges and Employers’ Job Outlook 2009 report found that among the traits that employers want the most in a job candidate, communication skills top the list (other prized attributes include a strong work ethic, ability to work in a team, and initiative).
Evidently, however, such skills are hard to come by. The U.S. Department of Education’s 2003 Assessment of Adult Literacy (the most recent study to be conducted) found that less than one-third of college graduates are “proficient” in the three measures of literacy.
Perhaps the best part about boosting your communications prowess: It won’t cost you much. You can take classes a la carte at a local community college or online for less than $500 per class — sometimes much less.
Also, check out continuing education programs at a local university or college. To help make classes even more affordable tap into scholarships.
Photo by mediabistro.