While every different employer and company looks for specific things in their candidates, there are certain skills that every employer requires. These are the qualities and traits that make you successful in a professional environment, no matter what type of company or business you work for, no matter if your work is corporate or creative.

Here’s a list of the top 7 marketable skills employers are actively looking for in potential new hires:

1) Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Being able to express yourself articulately is essential in the corporate world (and in all aspects of life!)

2) Able to build strong relationships. Companies want to hire people who get along with other people. Show that you are a friendly individual with great interpersonal skills who enjoys being part of a team and contributing to group efforts.

3) Great work ethic. Employers want to hire people who will work long hours if necessary, put in overtime, and don’t complain. They want candidates with integrity and who take pride in their work. What they don’t want are candidates who are simply looking to work a 9 to 5 without any flexibility.

4) Computer knowledge. Nowadays, you have to know how to use a computer if you want to be successful in business. Get a step ahead of the competition by creating a list on your resume of all the computer programs you are comfortable with and use regularly.

5) Problem solving skills. No job is without bumps in the road. Employers want to know that you will be able to handle anything that comes your way with grace under pressure, and that you are able to deal with difficulties on your own if necessary.

6) Creativity. Employers want employees who can offer creative solutions to common problems. Being able to think outside of the box is a huge advantage, because it will help the business stay ahead of its competition. Creativity can involve a clever solution to save money, an artistic touch, or anything else that makes you stand out as unique.

7) Punctuality. Time is money, and being on time shows respect for others. Being late (especially to interviews) is something no employer wants and can be the cause of immediate rejection, no matter how great your other qualities are. The employer will not want to take a chance on an employee who may keep the customer waiting!

Now that you know what’s important to employers, include them on your resume or write them as part of your cover letter to let employers know you really own them. All you have to do is turn each skill into a bullet:

*Excellent skills in written and verbal communication; excellent communicator who gets along very well with other team members and superiors.