I've outlined the top 7 marketable skills that companies look for in job candidates:

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

2)Able to build strong relationships. Companies want to hire people who get along well with other people. Show that your a person who enjoys making contributions to group efforts and has a willingness to interact with and be helpful to others.

3)Great work ethic. Employers want to hire people who will work long hours if necessary, put in extra time, and not complain. Employers want new hires with integrity and who take pride in the quality of their work. What they don't want are candidates who are simply looking to work 9-5 without any flexibility.

4)Computer-savvy. In today's world knowing how to use a computer is essential to succeed in the business world. Get ahead of other candidates by developing a list on your resume of the various computer programs that you use on a regular basis.

5)Problem-solving abilities. All jobs have hurdles and pitfalls along their roads. Employers want to know that you will be able to handle whatever comes your way with grace under pressure, and that you are capable of dealing with difficulty on your own if necessary.

6)Creativity. Employees who can offer creative ideas to common challenges are very desirable to employers. Being able to think outside the box is a huge plus, because it will help the company get ahead of its competition. Creativity can include an artistic flair, outside the box solutions that save money, or any other ideas that make you stand out from the crowd.

7)Punctuality. Time is money, and being on time shows respect for others. No employer wants to hire candidates who show up late for work or for the interview. The employer won't want to take a chance on an employee who may keep the client waiting!

Now that you know what's important to employers, make a point of either listing them on your resume or writing them up as part of your cover letter so that employers will know you actually possess them! All you have to do is turn each skill into a bullet point:

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