11 answers
Karuna
Student
Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India
1
Question
Updated
1425 views
What skills i should learn?
I dedicate my last few years for prepration to get into state services but unfortunately i did not receive any positive outcome. So now I am thinking to shift my dedication to something valuable that can get me into some legitimate organisation
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11 answers
Taha Ahmed
1
Answer
Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
Updated
Taha’s Answer
Sometimes a career shift after investing years in one path can open better opportunities. I’d suggest focusing on skills that have strong demand: AI tools, automation, data analysis, digital marketing, communication, and problem-solving.
The best skill is the one you can turn into real projects and experience. At Abelops, we see businesses increasingly looking for people who can combine technology with practical solutions. Keep building, and opportunities will follow.
The best skill is the one you can turn into real projects and experience. At Abelops, we see businesses increasingly looking for people who can combine technology with practical solutions. Keep building, and opportunities will follow.
Thank you so much for the advice.
Karuna
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
756
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Since you want to join a legitimate organization, you need to focus on skills that are widely used in both government and private jobs.
First, you need to learn computer and digital skills such as MS Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Google Sheets. Advanced Excel is especially valuable in almost every office job. Second, it's important to build communication skills, including writing professional emails, speaking clearly, and understanding workplace etiquette. These are important for any role. Third, try to gain real experience through internships, freelancing, or entry-level office work. Practical exposure is very important when switching career paths.
First, you need to learn computer and digital skills such as MS Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Google Sheets. Advanced Excel is especially valuable in almost every office job. Second, it's important to build communication skills, including writing professional emails, speaking clearly, and understanding workplace etiquette. These are important for any role. Third, try to gain real experience through internships, freelancing, or entry-level office work. Practical exposure is very important when switching career paths.
Karen Mitchell
Project Management
8
Answers
Rotherham, England, United Kingdom
Updated
Karen’s Answer
Its’s completely understandable to feel like you're at a crossroads after dedicating so much time to your previous goals. Please know that shifting your focus isn't a "starting over" moment—it's a pivot, and all the discipline and dedication you built while preparing for state services are powerful, transferable assets that many "legitimate" organisations value highly.
When looking to transition into a new professional environment, the most valuable skills are often a blend of foundational soft skills and specific technical or process-oriented expertise. Based on organizational standards like those at Certinia, here are a few areas you might consider exploring:
Soft Skills (The "Universal" Assets): These are often the most sought-after qualities. Focus on enhancing your communication, leadership, and analytical thinking. In a corporate setting, being able to articulate complex ideas clearly, work effectively within a team, and manage your own time is just as important as technical know-how.
Delivery and Governance: Understanding how to own a task from start to finish is highly prized. Developing skills in project delivery—such as how to estimate effort, identify risks, and anticipate roadblocks—can make you a very attractive candidate.
Process and Functional Expertise: Depending on the industry you are targeting, developing proficiency in standard business tools (like CRM systems, project management software, or data analysis tools) can bridge the gap between "having potential" and "being ready to deliver."
Industry-Relevant Certifications: If you are interested in a specific path, such as project management, look for recognized certifications. There are active professional communities, like the PMI (Project Management Institute), that offer resources, webinars, and networking opportunities to help you build confidence and industry-standard skills.
How to get started:
Reflect on what you enjoyed during your studies: Was it the organizational aspect, the analytical research, or the problem-solving? That can point you toward a functional area (like operations, project coordination, or data analysis).
Look for "Aspirational Skills": Identify a role you find interesting and look at the job requirements to see what the "essential" skills are.
Leverage your existing strengths: You already have experience with rigorous preparation. Applying that same discipline to learning a specific, in-demand tool or methodology can help you gain proficiency faster than someone just starting out.
This is a new chapter, and it’s okay to take it one step at a time. Many professionals successfully reinvent themselves by focusing on these foundational skills.
When looking to transition into a new professional environment, the most valuable skills are often a blend of foundational soft skills and specific technical or process-oriented expertise. Based on organizational standards like those at Certinia, here are a few areas you might consider exploring:
Soft Skills (The "Universal" Assets): These are often the most sought-after qualities. Focus on enhancing your communication, leadership, and analytical thinking. In a corporate setting, being able to articulate complex ideas clearly, work effectively within a team, and manage your own time is just as important as technical know-how.
Delivery and Governance: Understanding how to own a task from start to finish is highly prized. Developing skills in project delivery—such as how to estimate effort, identify risks, and anticipate roadblocks—can make you a very attractive candidate.
Process and Functional Expertise: Depending on the industry you are targeting, developing proficiency in standard business tools (like CRM systems, project management software, or data analysis tools) can bridge the gap between "having potential" and "being ready to deliver."
Industry-Relevant Certifications: If you are interested in a specific path, such as project management, look for recognized certifications. There are active professional communities, like the PMI (Project Management Institute), that offer resources, webinars, and networking opportunities to help you build confidence and industry-standard skills.
How to get started:
Reflect on what you enjoyed during your studies: Was it the organizational aspect, the analytical research, or the problem-solving? That can point you toward a functional area (like operations, project coordination, or data analysis).
Look for "Aspirational Skills": Identify a role you find interesting and look at the job requirements to see what the "essential" skills are.
Leverage your existing strengths: You already have experience with rigorous preparation. Applying that same discipline to learning a specific, in-demand tool or methodology can help you gain proficiency faster than someone just starting out.
This is a new chapter, and it’s okay to take it one step at a time. Many professionals successfully reinvent themselves by focusing on these foundational skills.
Thanks, can't wait to put this advice into action!
Karuna
Cristian-Matei Stamate
Team Leader Technical Support
3
Answers
Bucharest, Romania
Updated
Cristian-Matei’s Answer
Great question! In today’s world, one of the most valuable assets you can acquire is strong social skills IMO. The ability to effectively interact with others, build genuine connections, and establish rapport is the key to unlocking new opportunities.
Right now, the world is heavily focused on AI,which is fantastic and absolutely a path worth exploring. However, before you can even get to work in any technical or specialized field, you almost always have to navigate human relationships first. That is exactly where social skills become your superpower.
Interestingly, this skill set is highly underrated. It rarely gets formal professional focus because employers often assume people just have it. But if my experience has taught me anything, it's this: you can be incredibly talented at the technical side of your job, but if your social skills are lacking, your technical skills can only carry you so far. This is especially true in fields where daily human interaction is the norm.
If you want to intentionally develop this skill, I would recommend:
1) Step outside your comfort zone: Actively put yourself in new situations and practice handling different social dynamics.
2) Meet new people: Treat every interaction as a real-world practice ground.
3) Invest in yourself: Look into dedicated communication courses or consider working with a coach who can offer personalized guidance.
Technical skills might get you in the door, but it's your social skills that will keep you in the room and help you thrive.
Right now, the world is heavily focused on AI,which is fantastic and absolutely a path worth exploring. However, before you can even get to work in any technical or specialized field, you almost always have to navigate human relationships first. That is exactly where social skills become your superpower.
Interestingly, this skill set is highly underrated. It rarely gets formal professional focus because employers often assume people just have it. But if my experience has taught me anything, it's this: you can be incredibly talented at the technical side of your job, but if your social skills are lacking, your technical skills can only carry you so far. This is especially true in fields where daily human interaction is the norm.
If you want to intentionally develop this skill, I would recommend:
1) Step outside your comfort zone: Actively put yourself in new situations and practice handling different social dynamics.
2) Meet new people: Treat every interaction as a real-world practice ground.
3) Invest in yourself: Look into dedicated communication courses or consider working with a coach who can offer personalized guidance.
Technical skills might get you in the door, but it's your social skills that will keep you in the room and help you thrive.
Emma Dewdney
Senior Manager - Tech Support
12
Answers
Lincoln, England, United Kingdom
Updated
Emma’s Answer
You've already gained valuable skills from preparing for state services, such as discipline, consistency, reading, writing, and problem-solving. These are important, and now it's time to add skills that employers are looking for.
What skills should you learn?
1. Communication Skills
- Improve your English speaking and writing
- Practice public speaking
- Master email and professional communication
Clear communication is valued in almost every job.
2. Computer Skills
- Get comfortable with MS Excel, MS Word, PowerPoint, and Google Workspace
These are essential in many workplaces.
3. Digital Skills
Pick at least one:
- Data Analysis (using Excel, SQL, Power BI)
- Digital Marketing
- Graphic Design
- UI/UX Design
- Web Development
- Cybersecurity
These skills can open doors to job opportunities.
4. AI Skills
Learn to use AI tools effectively:
- ChatGPT
- AI research
- AI-assisted writing
- AI-assisted data analysis
Knowing AI tools makes you more valuable in many fields.
5. Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking
Employers want people who can:
- Analyze information
- Make smart decisions
- Solve real-world problems
Your preparation for state services has already given you a head start here.
Recommendations if you're starting new:
- Improve your English communication skills.
- Learn Excel and Power BI.
- Get familiar with SQL.
- Explore AI tools.
- Work on small projects and set up a LinkedIn profile.
In 6–12 months, these skills can qualify you for roles like:
- Data Analyst
- Operations Executive
- Business Analyst Trainee
- Customer Success Associate
- Administrative Officer
- Research Associate
Change your mindset:
Instead of thinking, "I failed the exam," think, "I built discipline and knowledge. Now I need to add a skill that employers want."
Many people have turned their efforts from exam prep into successful careers by focusing on skills that are in demand. The dedication you used in preparing for state services can lead you to success in a professional career if you focus on learning a high-demand skill.
What skills should you learn?
1. Communication Skills
- Improve your English speaking and writing
- Practice public speaking
- Master email and professional communication
Clear communication is valued in almost every job.
2. Computer Skills
- Get comfortable with MS Excel, MS Word, PowerPoint, and Google Workspace
These are essential in many workplaces.
3. Digital Skills
Pick at least one:
- Data Analysis (using Excel, SQL, Power BI)
- Digital Marketing
- Graphic Design
- UI/UX Design
- Web Development
- Cybersecurity
These skills can open doors to job opportunities.
4. AI Skills
Learn to use AI tools effectively:
- ChatGPT
- AI research
- AI-assisted writing
- AI-assisted data analysis
Knowing AI tools makes you more valuable in many fields.
5. Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking
Employers want people who can:
- Analyze information
- Make smart decisions
- Solve real-world problems
Your preparation for state services has already given you a head start here.
Recommendations if you're starting new:
- Improve your English communication skills.
- Learn Excel and Power BI.
- Get familiar with SQL.
- Explore AI tools.
- Work on small projects and set up a LinkedIn profile.
In 6–12 months, these skills can qualify you for roles like:
- Data Analyst
- Operations Executive
- Business Analyst Trainee
- Customer Success Associate
- Administrative Officer
- Research Associate
Change your mindset:
Instead of thinking, "I failed the exam," think, "I built discipline and knowledge. Now I need to add a skill that employers want."
Many people have turned their efforts from exam prep into successful careers by focusing on skills that are in demand. The dedication you used in preparing for state services can lead you to success in a professional career if you focus on learning a high-demand skill.
Thank you for the advice, Emma.
I am thinking about data analytics but I am considering AI and Machine learning too... can you help me to choose between them
Karuna
Navneet Kashyap
Software Engineer
119
Answers
Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
Updated
Navneet’s Answer
Short Answer: Pivot your mindset toward the corporate sector by capitalizing on the massive discipline and analytical skills you built during preparation, and focus on highly valued, in-demand technical or managerial skills.
Recognize the Value You Already Have
First, understand that your last few years were not a waste. Preparing for state services requires immense discipline, long hours of deep focus, strong analytical thinking, and a solid understanding of complex systems. The corporate world desperately needs people who are self-motivated and can absorb huge amounts of data. Your immediate goal is to learn how to translate those years of intensive studying into "corporate-speak" on a resume, framing your gap as a period of rigorous professional development.
You can learn skills like AI, content writing, content editing, hardware skills etc.
Recognize the Value You Already Have
First, understand that your last few years were not a waste. Preparing for state services requires immense discipline, long hours of deep focus, strong analytical thinking, and a solid understanding of complex systems. The corporate world desperately needs people who are self-motivated and can absorb huge amounts of data. Your immediate goal is to learn how to translate those years of intensive studying into "corporate-speak" on a resume, framing your gap as a period of rigorous professional development.
You can learn skills like AI, content writing, content editing, hardware skills etc.
Thank you for the advice, Navneet.
Karuna
Roseline Toppo
UX designer
4
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Roseline’s Answer
AI skills are incredibly important today. Learning automation with AI will benefit you in the long run. Plus, AI is flexible, allowing you to work from anywhere.
Ash Thapar
Customer operations
3
Answers
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Updated
Ash’s Answer
In my experience, one of the most valuable skills in any job is "people skills." This means being able to:
1. Listen carefully without judging and really be part of the conversation.
2. Show respect to the person you are talking to.
3. Be eager to learn from every interaction, stay open to new opportunities, and welcome feedback.
In most interviews, people often look for these skills, even if you have all the technical qualifications for the job.
1. Listen carefully without judging and really be part of the conversation.
2. Show respect to the person you are talking to.
3. Be eager to learn from every interaction, stay open to new opportunities, and welcome feedback.
In most interviews, people often look for these skills, even if you have all the technical qualifications for the job.
Thanks for the help.
Karuna
Diana Rodriguez Velasquez
Psychologist
65
Answers
Memphis, Tennessee
Updated
Diana’s Answer
Hi Karuna!!
I can understand why you’re feeling uncertain after investing so much time in one path. The good news is that the time you spent studying wasn’t wasted—it likely helped you develop discipline, resilience, and the ability to learn, which are valuable in any career.
If you’re looking for skills that can open doors across many industries, I’d recommend focusing on a combination of technical and interpersonal skills:
* Strong communication (written and verbal)
* Digital skills (Microsoft Excel, Google Workspace, basic data analysis)
* AI tools (such as ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, or other productivity tools)
* Project management basics
* Problem-solving and critical thinking
* English, if it isn’t already one of your strengths
Most importantly, try to choose skills that genuinely interest you instead of only following trends. Learning becomes much easier when you’re curious about the subject.
Can I ask what kind of organizations or industries you’re interested in working for? That might help narrow down which skills would benefit you the most.
I can understand why you’re feeling uncertain after investing so much time in one path. The good news is that the time you spent studying wasn’t wasted—it likely helped you develop discipline, resilience, and the ability to learn, which are valuable in any career.
If you’re looking for skills that can open doors across many industries, I’d recommend focusing on a combination of technical and interpersonal skills:
* Strong communication (written and verbal)
* Digital skills (Microsoft Excel, Google Workspace, basic data analysis)
* AI tools (such as ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, or other productivity tools)
* Project management basics
* Problem-solving and critical thinking
* English, if it isn’t already one of your strengths
Most importantly, try to choose skills that genuinely interest you instead of only following trends. Learning becomes much easier when you’re curious about the subject.
Can I ask what kind of organizations or industries you’re interested in working for? That might help narrow down which skills would benefit you the most.
Thank you for giving me advice.
Karuna
Shelly Lin
Forensic Consultant
79
Answers
Sturbridge, Massachusetts
Updated
Shelly’s Answer
Based on what you've shared, I would focus on building skills that are transferable across many industries rather than preparing for a single career path. Strong communication, Excel, data analysis, problem-solving, and digital literacy are valued by employers in almost every sector. Depending on your interests, you could also explore certifications in areas such as accounting, project management, business analysis, data analytics, or cybersecurity. Most importantly, try to gain practical experience through internships, volunteer work, or personal projects, as employers often value demonstrated skills and a willingness to learn just as much as formal qualifications. Your previous preparation was not wasted; the discipline, resilience, and work ethic you developed can be valuable assets in any professional career.
Thank you so much!
Karuna
sarvestha sona
UX Designer
8
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
sarvestha’s Answer
Don't view those years as wasted. The discipline, consistency, and resilience you gained while preparing for state services are important skills that will help you in any job.
Now is a perfect time to learn skills that are in demand. Depending on what you like, you can look into fields like data analysis, UI/UX design, software development, digital marketing, cybersecurity, cloud computing, AI, or project management. If you're unsure where to begin, choose one area that truly interests you and stick with it.
Remember, it's never too late to change direction. Many people discover their best careers after trying something new. Keep curious, keep learning, and trust the journey—you'll succeed. Best of luck!
Now is a perfect time to learn skills that are in demand. Depending on what you like, you can look into fields like data analysis, UI/UX design, software development, digital marketing, cybersecurity, cloud computing, AI, or project management. If you're unsure where to begin, choose one area that truly interests you and stick with it.
Remember, it's never too late to change direction. Many people discover their best careers after trying something new. Keep curious, keep learning, and trust the journey—you'll succeed. Best of luck!