Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Analytical Skills involve the ability to collect, analyze, and interpret data in order to understand complex issues, identify patterns, and make informed decisions.
Business Operations Specialists use analytical skills to review processes, spot inefficiencies, and interpret operational information. They apply this insight to support improvements, coordinate actions across teams, and help keep business activities running smoothly.
At Level 1 Proficiency, workers can review straightforward information, notice obvious trends, and follow established steps to compare options. They use basic reasoning to support routine tasks and identify clear issues that need attention.
At Level 2 Proficiency, workers can examine related information from several sources, connect findings to business processes, and explain likely causes of common problems. They use sound judgment to choose among standard options and support practical improvements with confidence.
At Level 3 Proficiency, workers can consistently evaluate complex operational situations, synthesize information into clear conclusions, and recommend well-reasoned actions. They apply analytical skills reliably to resolve issues, improve workflows, and support decisions across business operations.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Auditing is the systematic examination and evaluation of an organization's financial records, compliance processes, or operational procedures to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and regulatory compliance.
Business Operations Specialists use auditing to examine workflows, documentation, and internal procedures for compliance and operational accuracy. They use it to support process improvement by identifying weak controls, incomplete records, and practices that need correction.
At Level 1 Proficiency, workers can follow basic audit checklists, compare records against standard procedures, and flag obvious discrepancies for review. They can gather supporting documents and report findings clearly without independently resolving complex issues.
At Level 2 Proficiency, workers can conduct routine audits across multiple processes, identify recurring errors, and explain the likely source of noncompliance. They can document results consistently, coordinate follow-up actions, and apply established procedures with growing confidence.
At Level 3 Proficiency, workers can independently plan and carry out audits, evaluate controls across business operations, and judge whether procedures meet required standards. They can communicate findings clearly, recommend practical corrections, and ensure issues are tracked through completion.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Business Continuity refers to the ability to keep essential operations running during disruptions and to restore services quickly after an interruption. It includes planning for emergencies, protecting critical processes, and coordinating responses that reduce downtime and limit business impact.
Business Operations Specialists use business continuity to help maintain day-to-day functions when systems, suppliers, or facilities are disrupted. They support continuity plans, communicate procedures, and coordinate with teams to keep operations stable and recover work efficiently.
At Level 1 Proficiency, workers can follow established continuity procedures during routine disruptions and report issues to the appropriate contacts. They help gather basic information, carry out assigned recovery steps, and keep records that support the organization’s response.
At Level 2 Proficiency, workers can apply continuity procedures across several operational situations and adjust their actions to fit the disruption. They coordinate with internal teams, track recovery tasks, and help ensure critical work continues with limited interruption.
At Level 3 Proficiency, workers can reliably manage continuity activities for business operations and guide others through established response steps. They coordinate recovery efforts, resolve routine obstacles, and help ensure essential processes resume smoothly after a disruption.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Communication is the ability to convey information clearly and effectively to others, both verbally and in writing. It involves listening, speaking, and empathizing with others to ensure messages are accurately transmitted and understood.
Business Operations Specialists use communication to coordinate tasks, clarify procedures, and keep teams aligned on priorities, deadlines, and expectations. They also use it to gather information from stakeholders, resolve misunderstandings, and present updates in a concise, professional manner.
At Level 1 Proficiency, workers can share routine information clearly, ask simple follow-up questions, and respond to basic requests in a polite and understandable way. They can relay instructions accurately and recognize when a message needs clarification before acting.
At Level 2 Proficiency, workers can adjust their communication to the audience, explain standard procedures, and handle common questions with confidence and consistency. They can summarize issues, confirm understanding, and coordinate with others to keep routine work moving smoothly.
At Level 3 Proficiency, workers can communicate complex operational matters clearly, manage sensitive discussions professionally, and adapt messages across different stakeholders without losing accuracy. They can resolve misunderstandings, build alignment, and maintain dependable communication that supports effective business operations.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Coordinating refers to the ability to align people, tasks, and timing so work moves smoothly toward a shared goal. It involves organizing priorities, communicating needs, and adjusting plans when conditions change.
Business Operations Specialists use coordinating to keep projects, procedures, and cross-functional requests moving in the right order. They help different teams stay informed, resolve scheduling conflicts, and ensure routine operations are completed without unnecessary delays.
At Level 1 Proficiency, workers can follow established instructions to arrange simple tasks, meetings, or handoffs for a small group. They keep track of basic details, confirm who is responsible, and pass along updates so immediate work stays organized.
At Level 2 Proficiency, workers can coordinate several related activities at once, balancing timing, priorities, and participant needs with limited supervision. They anticipate common conflicts, communicate changes clearly, and keep routine business operations aligned across a few teams or workstreams.
At Level 3 Proficiency, workers can independently coordinate complex, ongoing activities across multiple teams while keeping schedules, responsibilities, and follow-up actions aligned. They adapt plans smoothly when conditions change and maintain reliable execution of business operations with minimal oversight.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Customer Service Customer service is the act of providing assistance and support to customers before, during, and after a purchase. It involves addressing customer needs, inquiries, and concerns in a timely and courteous manner to ensure a positive customer experience.
Business Operations Specialists use customer service to handle inquiries, coordinate responses, and keep routine processes moving smoothly for clients and colleagues. They apply it when explaining procedures, addressing issues, and ensuring that service standards are met across operational tasks.
At Level 1 Proficiency, workers can answer straightforward questions, follow basic service procedures, and direct people to the right contact or resource. They communicate politely, stay organized, and handle common requests with supervision or clear guidance.
At Level 2 Proficiency, workers can manage a wider range of customer concerns, explain procedures clearly, and resolve routine issues with limited support. They adjust their communication to the situation, keep interactions professional, and follow through until the request is completed.
At Level 3 Proficiency, workers can handle complex service situations independently, maintain consistent professionalism, and resolve issues while balancing customer needs with operational requirements. They anticipate concerns, coordinate across teams when needed, and deliver reliable support that reinforces service quality.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Data analysis involves collecting, processing, and analyzing data to extract insights, identify trends, and make informed decisions.
Business Operations Specialists use data analysis to review operational results, identify process issues, and track performance against goals. They rely on findings to support reporting, improve workflows, and help managers make timely decisions.
At Level 1 Proficiency, workers can review basic reports, spot obvious trends, and compare simple figures across time periods or categories. They can summarize findings clearly and flag unusual results for others to examine further.
At Level 2 Proficiency, workers can organize data from multiple sources, check for consistency, and interpret results to explain operational changes. They can connect findings to business processes and recommend practical adjustments based on observed patterns.
At Level 3 Proficiency, workers can independently analyze complex operational data, distinguish meaningful trends from noise, and present clear conclusions for decision makers. They can apply findings reliably to support process improvements, monitor outcomes, and guide ongoing business operations.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Governance refers to the structures, rules, and decision-making practices that guide how work is directed, monitored, and held accountable. It helps ensure actions align with policy, responsibilities are clear, and oversight is consistent across teams and processes.
Business Operations Specialists use governance to coordinate procedures, support compliance with internal standards, and keep operational activities aligned across teams. They help document decisions, maintain oversight of routine processes, and ensure issues are routed through the proper channels.
At Level 1 Proficiency, workers can follow established governance procedures, apply basic rules consistently, and recognize when a task needs approval or review. They can maintain orderly records and escalate routine exceptions to the appropriate person or team.
At Level 2 Proficiency, workers can apply governance requirements across several routine activities, explain process expectations to others, and identify when a standard needs closer attention. They can manage recurring exceptions, coordinate approvals, and keep work aligned with established operating rules.
At Level 3 Proficiency, workers can reliably apply governance practices across business operations, adapt procedures to fit changing conditions, and ensure decisions remain consistent with policy. They can coordinate stakeholders, resolve process gaps, and maintain dependable oversight without losing operational continuity.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Influencing skills refer to the ability to persuade, convince, or motivate others to adopt a certain course of action, idea, or mindset through effective communication and interpersonal skills.
Business Operations Specialists use influencing skills to coordinate priorities, secure cooperation, and move process changes forward across teams. They help stakeholders accept new procedures, resolve resistance, and keep operational work aligned with business goals.
At Level 1 Proficiency, workers can present ideas clearly, listen to concerns, and ask for basic cooperation from coworkers. They use respectful communication to support routine tasks and help others understand simple requests or changes.
At Level 2 Proficiency, workers can adapt their message to different audiences, address objections, and build agreement around common operational needs. They use practical persuasion to support process updates, coordinate across groups, and keep work moving with less friction.
At Level 3 Proficiency, workers can consistently influence diverse stakeholders, balance competing interests, and secure commitment to business operations decisions. They handle resistance with tact, maintain trust, and guide others toward shared action in complex situations.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) refers to the ability to define, monitor, and interpret the measures that show whether objectives are being met. It helps managers focus attention on results, compare performance over time, and communicate progress clearly to stakeholders.
Business Operations Specialists use key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor process performance, service levels, and progress toward operational targets. They review indicator trends to support decisions, coordinate improvements, and keep teams aligned on priorities.
At Level 1 Proficiency, workers can locate basic KPI information, understand what each indicator measures, and report simple results to others. They follow established reporting routines and recognize when a KPI is above, below, or near its target.
At Level 2 Proficiency, workers can interpret KPI patterns across routine reports and explain what the results mean for day-to-day operations. They use KPI information to flag issues, support follow-up actions, and adjust work priorities within established procedures.
At Level 3 Proficiency, workers can apply KPIs consistently to manage operational performance and guide regular business reviews. They connect multiple indicators to business goals, communicate implications clearly, and help teams maintain reliable focus on agreed targets.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Management is the ability to organize, direct, and control resources (including personnel) to achieve specific goals efficiently and effectively.
Business Operations Specialists use management to coordinate processes, support teams, and keep daily operations moving smoothly. They organize tasks, communicate expectations, and resolve workflow issues that affect service delivery and business performance.
At Level 1 Proficiency, workers can follow established instructions to organize routine tasks and keep assigned work on schedule. They can communicate basic priorities, track simple follow-up items, and support supervisors by keeping information and materials in order.
At Level 2 Proficiency, workers can manage recurring work with limited supervision, adjust priorities when conditions change, and coordinate with others to keep tasks on track. They can identify routine problems, communicate expectations clearly, and help maintain consistent operations across a small set of activities.
At Level 3 Proficiency, workers can independently manage multiple operational activities, align work across people and processes, and keep priorities balanced under changing demands. They can anticipate issues, coordinate responses, and maintain reliable execution while supporting broader business objectives.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Microsoft Excel is a powerful spreadsheet program developed by Microsoft, commonly used for organizing, analyzing, and visualizing data. It offers a wide range of functions and features to manipulate numerical data efficiently.
Business Operations Specialists use Microsoft Excel to maintain operational records, prepare reports, and monitor workflow information. They rely on spreadsheets to organize data, compare results, and support day-to-day business decisions.
At Level 1 Proficiency, workers can enter data into spreadsheets, format cells, and use basic formulas for simple totals. They can sort or filter lists and update existing files accurately under clear instructions.
At Level 2 Proficiency, workers can build organized spreadsheets, apply common formulas, and adjust layouts to support recurring business tasks. They can combine information from multiple sheets, check for errors, and produce clear reports with limited guidance.
At Level 3 Proficiency, workers can manage complex spreadsheets, maintain consistent formulas, and adapt workbook structure to changing operational needs. They can create reliable reports, troubleshoot issues, and support others in using Excel effectively.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Microsoft PowerPoint is a presentation software developed by Microsoft that allows users to create slideshows for various purposes, such as business presentations, educational lectures, and informational sessions.
Business Operations Specialists use Microsoft PowerPoint to prepare presentations for process updates, project reviews, and management briefings. They rely on it to organize information clearly, support decisions, and communicate operational priorities to different audiences.
At Level 1 Proficiency, workers can build basic slide decks using templates, add text, and insert simple visuals. They can format slides consistently and make straightforward edits to support routine business presentations.
At Level 2 Proficiency, workers can develop polished presentations with clear structure, appropriate visuals, and tailored messaging for specific business needs. They can combine multiple slide elements effectively and adjust layouts to improve clarity and audience understanding.
At Level 3 Proficiency, workers can produce well-structured presentations that communicate complex operational information in a professional and persuasive way. They can adapt content for different stakeholders, maintain consistency across decks, and refine slides to support confident business discussions.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Operations involve managing and overseeing the day-to-day activities of a business to ensure efficiency, productivity, and compliance with set standards and procedures.
Business Operations Specialists use operations to support internal processes, coordinate across teams, and keep business activities organized. They help ensure tasks are completed on time, procedures are followed, and operational issues are addressed before they disrupt performance.
At Level 1 Proficiency, workers can follow established operational procedures, track routine tasks, and report basic issues to the appropriate person. They handle straightforward assignments reliably and keep records or updates organized so day-to-day work stays on schedule.
At Level 2 Proficiency, workers can manage recurring operational tasks with limited supervision, adjust priorities when conditions change, and coordinate with others to keep work moving. They recognize common process problems, apply standard solutions, and communicate status clearly to support smooth execution.
At Level 3 Proficiency, workers can independently oversee operational activities, resolve routine process disruptions, and maintain consistent performance across multiple workstreams. They coordinate people and procedures effectively, anticipate operational needs, and ensure business operations remain orderly and dependable.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Planning is the ability to establish goals, develop strategies, and create detailed action plans to achieve objectives within a specified time frame and with available resources.
Business Operations Specialists use planning to coordinate workflows, align activities across teams, and keep projects moving on schedule. They also use it to prepare for routine changes, manage competing priorities, and support smooth day-to-day operations.
At Level 1 Proficiency, workers can follow established plans, organize basic tasks, and keep simple schedules up to date. They can prepare routine materials, track assigned steps, and complete work in the order provided with limited need for adjustment.
At Level 2 Proficiency, workers can build practical work plans for recurring activities, coordinate timing with others, and adjust priorities when conditions change. They can identify likely bottlenecks, sequence tasks sensibly, and keep operations aligned with immediate business needs.
At Level 3 Proficiency, workers can independently plan complex operational work, balance multiple priorities, and adapt schedules to maintain continuity across teams. They can anticipate dependencies, coordinate resources reliably, and keep plans effective even when requirements shift.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Presentations involve the ability to clearly and effectively communicate information to an audience through structured verbal and visual formats. This skill requires strong public speaking, organization, and engagement techniques to convey ideas, persuade, or inform listeners.
Business Operations Specialists use presentations to explain procedures, share updates, and align teams around operational changes. They also present findings, recommendations, and status information to managers and colleagues in a structured, professional manner.
At Level 1 Proficiency, workers can deliver simple prepared presentations using basic notes or slides. They communicate routine information clearly and answer straightforward questions with limited adaptation to the audience.
At Level 2 Proficiency, workers can present operational information with a clear structure and adjust emphasis for different listeners. They handle common questions, connect points to business needs, and use supporting materials to reinforce key messages.
At Level 3 Proficiency, workers can lead presentations on complex operational topics with confidence and consistency. They tailor content to the audience, manage discussion effectively, and present recommendations in a way that supports informed decisions.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Problem Solving is the ability to identify, analyze, and solve complex issues or obstacles using logical reasoning and critical thinking skills.
Business Operations Specialists use problem solving to address workflow disruptions, process gaps, and coordination issues across teams. They help keep operations moving by clarifying the issue, weighing options, and applying workable fixes that fit business needs.
At Level 1 Proficiency, workers can recognize straightforward problems, gather the needed facts, and follow established steps to resolve common issues. They know when to ask for guidance and can carry out simple fixes that restore normal work without creating additional disruption.
At Level 2 Proficiency, workers can handle recurring or moderately complex problems by comparing possible causes, selecting an appropriate response, and adjusting actions as needed. They work with others to resolve issues efficiently and can explain the reasoning behind their chosen solution.
At Level 3 Proficiency, workers can resolve complex operational problems with limited direction, even when several teams, processes, or priorities are involved. They apply consistent judgment to identify root causes, coordinate practical solutions, and prevent similar issues from recurring in the role.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Process Improvement involves analyzing current processes and workflows to identify areas for enhancement, optimizing efficiency, reducing costs, and increasing overall effectiveness.
Business Operations Specialists use process improvement to refine workflows, reduce delays, and make routine procedures easier for teams to follow. They help align day-to-day operations with business goals by spotting recurring problems and recommending practical changes.
At Level 1 Proficiency, workers can follow established process steps, notice obvious bottlenecks, and suggest simple fixes based on direct observation. They can help document current procedures and support small adjustments that make routine work clearer and more consistent.
At Level 2 Proficiency, workers can compare how a process is actually performed with how it is intended to work, then recommend workable changes that improve flow and consistency. They can coordinate with others to update procedures, resolve recurring issues, and support smoother handoffs between tasks.
At Level 3 Proficiency, workers can independently evaluate operational processes, identify root causes of inefficiency, and implement practical improvements that hold up in daily use. They can guide others in adopting revised procedures and ensure changes are sustained across routine business operations.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Project Management involves planning, organizing, and overseeing the successful completion of a project. It includes defining project goals, creating schedules, allocating resources, managing budgets, and ensuring timely delivery.
Business Operations Specialists use project management to coordinate cross-functional work, keep operational initiatives on schedule, and ensure responsibilities are clearly assigned. They help align teams, monitor milestones, and resolve workflow issues so business processes run smoothly.
At Level 1 Proficiency, workers can follow a basic project plan, track assigned tasks, and report simple status updates to others. They can keep records organized and help ensure routine deadlines are met under close guidance.
At Level 2 Proficiency, workers can manage standard projects with clear goals, coordinate several tasks at once, and adjust schedules when routine issues arise. They can communicate progress, flag risks, and keep stakeholders informed with moderate independence.
At Level 3 Proficiency, workers can independently lead complex operational projects, coordinate multiple contributors, and keep work aligned with business priorities from start to finish. They can anticipate obstacles, refine plans as conditions shift, and deliver reliable results with minimal oversight.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Research involves systematically investigating a subject or phenomenon to discover new insights, validate existing knowledge, or solve specific problems. It includes gathering and analyzing information from various sources to draw meaningful conclusions.
Business Operations Specialists use research to investigate procedures, policies, market conditions, and internal issues before recommending actions. They rely on it to support clearer problem solving, better coordination across teams, and more informed operational decisions.
At Level 1 Proficiency, workers can locate basic information from approved sources and extract key points for routine tasks. They can follow established search steps, record findings accurately, and share simple summaries that support day-to-day business operations.
At Level 2 Proficiency, workers can gather information from several sources, compare details, and identify patterns that affect operational work. They can organize findings into clear summaries and use them to support decisions, updates, or process improvements with moderate independence.
At Level 3 Proficiency, workers can independently plan research, choose appropriate sources, and synthesize findings into reliable guidance for business operations. They can evaluate conflicting information, tailor results to the audience, and produce clear recommendations that support consistent action.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Stakeholder Engagement refers to the ability to identify relevant parties, communicate clearly, and build cooperative relationships that support shared goals. It involves listening to concerns, aligning expectations, and maintaining trust so decisions and actions are understood and accepted.
Business Operations Specialists use stakeholder engagement to coordinate across teams, gather input on process changes, and keep work moving smoothly. They help ensure operational decisions reflect business needs, reduce misunderstandings, and support consistent follow-through.
At Level 1 Proficiency, workers can communicate routine updates to stakeholders and respond to straightforward questions about tasks, timelines, or basic process changes. They follow established guidance to share information accurately and maintain polite, dependable contact with others.
At Level 2 Proficiency, workers can tailor messages to different stakeholder groups, clarify expectations, and address common concerns during ongoing operational work. They participate in discussions, track follow-up items, and help keep stakeholders informed when priorities or procedures shift.
At Level 3 Proficiency, workers can manage stakeholder relationships across multiple business activities, anticipate concerns, and guide discussions toward practical agreement. They handle complex coordination confidently, maintain trust through consistent communication, and support smooth implementation of operational decisions.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Writing is the ability to effectively convey information, ideas, and thoughts through written communication. It involves organizing thoughts cohesively, using appropriate language and tone, and structuring content for clarity and impact.
Business Operations Specialists use writing to document processes, explain operational changes, and communicate with teams and stakeholders. They produce clear messages that support coordination, consistency, and follow-through across daily business activities.
At Level 1 Proficiency, workers can write short, clear messages, basic notes, and simple process instructions that others can follow. They can capture routine information accurately and use familiar formats with limited need for revision.
At Level 2 Proficiency, workers can draft organized emails, summaries, and procedural documents that explain routine business matters with clarity. They adjust tone and structure for different audiences and revise their writing to improve precision and usefulness.
At Level 3 Proficiency, workers can produce polished business documents, detailed process guidance, and well-structured communications that support operations reliably. They tailor writing to complex situations, maintain consistency across materials, and communicate expectations in a way that reduces confusion and supports action.