Trade schools train welders, auto mechanics, truck drivers, cosmetologists, and lots of other people striving toward careers in industries that involve customer service and hands-on work. To be successful working in a trade, one must have:
- An Awareness of Safety Requirements: A successful tradesperson is aware of the safety requirements and precautions recommended for their particular field. They employ these safety measures in all aspects of their work.
- An Interest in Trends: A great tradesperson follows the trends of their industry and stays on top of new research and developments.
- Communication Skills: Great communication skills are essential in a service-oriented profession, and to be successful, one must have excellent oral and written communication skills to effectively understand what a customer expects and to explain the work performed.
- Customer Service Skills: Those working in a trade must have excellent customer service skills and be able to adequately meet the needs and expectations placed upon them.
- Good Technique: A successful tradesperson has good technique in the work they perform and takes the time to ensure they are performing at the best of their ability.
- High-Tech Aptitude: Many trades require solid technical skills, so in those particular professions, one is better off with a foundation in technology and a propensity toward technical applications.
- Manual Dexterity: Tradespeople should have good manual dexterity and have excellent hand-eye coordination, as much of their work involves the hands.
- Problem-Solving Skills: A successful tradesperson is prepared for problems and has sharp problem-solving skills. When presented with an issue, they are able to quickly identify it and determine a good solution.
- Thorough Knowledge of Tools and Equipment: A successful tradesperson has a thorough knowledge of all the tools and equipment used in their work and is able to skillfully perform tasks with such tools and equipment easily.
- Troubleshooting Skills: A great tradesperson has sharp troubleshooting skills and can quickly identify the source of a problem and develop a way to address that problem.