What are soft skills?
No matter the position, organization or industry, people work with other people. Soft skills are what enable us to effectively communicate and work with each other. By developing soft skills, we can better work together and contribute to a more productive workplace. These six soft skills are what employers look for when interviewing candidates –
1. Communication
The ability to effectively and efficiently communicate with both clients and employees is undoubtedly crucial for individual and team success. In the office, frequent and effective communication is key to make sure co-workers and managers are on the same page and using their time wisely. Examples of good communication skills include confidence, clarity, listening, respect, and constructive feedback.
2. Teamwork
Teamwork is crucial for career development. Good teamwork allows you to work effectively with others with end goals in mind. Conflict management, active listening, communication, delegation and coordination all play a vital role in successful teamwork.
3. Problem Solving
Being able to identify, define, analyze, brainstorm and produce solutions to a problem are essential skills employers look for in current and future team members. Managers look for someone who not only presents a problem to the table, but provides plausible solutions beyond expert intuition.
4. Time Management
Time management is hard to teach, but it is essential to the job and staying on top of your tasks. This skill demonstrates your overall project readiness and prioritization. Employers recognize and reward when projects are done in a timely manner or within the time agreed.
5. Self-confidence
One of the best things you can do for your own success is to build and learn how to show self-confidence. It is simply the belief that you know what to do and how to do it. Knowing your worth and being able to stand up for yourself are key aspects in growing your career. When you are not afraid to take pride in your abilities and work in a respectful way, you appear self-confident.
6. Ability to accept feedback
No matter what stage of your career you are in, criticism can be hard to hear and accept. However, learning from feedback is one of the best opportunities for growth both personally and professionally. Odds are, more learning will happen from mistakes being made and even help avoid similar problems moving forward.
Soft skills are critical to everyday working life. The soft skills you possess will set you apart from others, especially in professional, business settings. Check out this OpenSesame workshop to learn more about soft skills and how to develop them in your everyday life and careers.
