Successful promotion on the career ladder depends on the skills and competencies, that are in high demand on the labor market. Generally, these qualities depend on his individual  interests and goals. However, there are qualities that are always in demand in the labor market .

U.S.  Department of Labor has compiled a list of ten skills that are in high demand among employers.

Ability to solve problems
The ability to recognize problems, learn and effective decision making are highly valued in the public service, business, medicine, science and engineering.
Vocational skills
Ability to install, test and repair electronic and mechanical devices is very highly regarded in the fields of engineering, telecommunications, transportation.
Ability to communicate with people
The working atmosphere in the organization and its success often depends on the quality of relations established between employees and their customers.
Programming
Understanding of the capabilities of computers and the ability to use them greatly increases the chances of finding a good job. With the increasing number of computers will increase the need for specialists capable of providing services to computer assistance.
Teaching skills
An endless stream of information has increased the demand for qualified instructors and teachers especially in the areas of education, public and social services, commerce and management.
Science and Mathematics
Mathematical minds - at a great price, because they provide a progress in medicine, engineering and science.
Money Management
Inexhaustible demand for investment brokers, accountants, social workers.
Information Management
Information - a critical element in all spheres of human activity, especially in the economy. More and more will be in demand systems analysts, experts in the field of information technology and database administrators.
Knowledge of foreign language
In a climate of global economic and political integration of knowledge of such "hot" languages like English, Russian, Japanese, Chinese and German can significantly increase the chances of finding a good job.
Business management
Have a great demand for skills in successful management, including personnel management, systems, resources and finances, understanding the needs of consumers and the ability to turn this knowledge into profit.

Source: http://www.imcl.ru/job/030620_wpf.php