Skills you need to get a job in sustainability

With the UK Government having pledged billions of pounds towards sustainability over the past few years, the sector will be looking to employ thousands of workers for a variety of different roles as we head into the second half of the decade.

In a strategy document released by the Department for Business Innovation & Skills, Vince Cable wrote that:

“Skills are vital to our future and improving skills is essential to building sustainable growth and stronger communities. A skilled workforce is necessary to stimulate the private-sector growth that will bring new jobs and new prosperity for people all over this country.”

With that in mind, what skills are required for a role within the sustainability sector?

Commercial awareness

Like any industry, commercial awareness is important for any single project, but even more so when it comes to sustainability. A commercially aware employee will look to improve the efficiency of the project and make people aware of any potential issues that might occur.

Commercial awareness can be achieved by keeping an eye on any developments within the industry, especially any that might feature in the news. For those on interview, it’s a good idea to discuss related events with the employer.

Enthusiasm

When it comes to sustainability, enthusiasm is important as the sector is a hot topic within politics – and that doesn’t look like it is going to change. Any employee within the sector should be 100% committed, and for those that genuinely are, the chances to progress are great.

Enthusiasm can be proven through proactivity, and interest in the industry.

Dedication

Sustainability looks to be one of the fastest moving industries on the planet. With new issues, laws, projects and technologies coming to light on a daily basis, it’s important for everyone in the sector to keep up with what’s going on.

It’s therefore a great idea for anyone in the industry to apply for new qualifications and training programmes, to ensure that they are not left behind for when new technology and techniques are introduced.

Forward thinking

Forward thinking and problem solving is an important skill that is required within any sector of the construction industry. No matter what kind of role a person might have within a company, it is important that they are able to overcome problems with initiative and by themselves.

Having and using a great eye for detail will help employees demonstrate that they will be able to deal with potential issues before they occur. Whether a person is sat in an office or laying bricks on a project, everyone has a part to play in improving company efficiency and limiting costly mistakes.

If you happen to be at the interview stage, it might be an idea to explain situations in the past where you’ve had to handle the pressures of different responsibilities at the same time. If you haven’t had much job experience, you could explain how you successfully split your time between school work and club memberships or societies.