10 Jul Soft Skills You Need to be Successful in the Workplace
No matter your industry or job title, there are many hard skills — such as knowledge of a technology application or the ability to speak a foreign language —that will help you stand out in the job hunt and perform well in your employment. However, these aren’t the only skills that will make a difference. Soft skills are harder to place on your resume but make a significant impact on your career. These are interpersonal skills that help you better interact, engage, and be efficient in the workplace.
Here are five soft skills that you should strive to obtain.
1. Strong communication
Communication is critical. Whether you are communicating via the telephone, email, instant messaging, or even in person, you need to appear professional and positive. You want to deliver all your messages in a clear and concise manner. Keep in mind that communication is more than just talking, it also involves listening and your body language!
2. Problem-solving skills
Your manager and employer do not want to constantly hold your hand. In fact, they don’t have time for it. Rather, they are looking for employees who can solve problems and issues on their own. They want someone who is willing to do the research, brainstorm solutions, and test them out. However, not all problems that arise can be solved on your own. Part of your problem-solving skills should include knowing when it is appropriate to reach out for assistance and who is the best person to help you.
3. Team player
In most industries and companies, you can’t find success on your own. It takes a team of individuals to pull together their talents and abilities. Plus, you feed off of other individuals in the office. When someone is constantly negative and always complaining, it can bring down the entire team. One of the best soft skills to possess is teamwork. This involves many things including:
- The ability to collaborate with employees/co-workers.
- Being great at brainstorming and accepting one another’s ideas.
- Helping each other out, even when it is not convenient.
- Completing all of your specific assignments and tasks on time.
- Doing your share of the work — not passing it off to someone else.
- Not taking the credit for someone else’s work.
4. Time management
How well you manage your time is critical to your success. When you use your time wisely you will be more productive and efficient. You will be able to complete your most important tasks first and your boss and coworkers will be less likely to wait for you to complete certain tasks.
5. Hard working
While it is important to have fun while at work, you also must work hard. A strong work ethic is critical no matter your job. This soft skill will not only help you impress employers but it will make you feel more satisfied with your job and the work you are completing. It will help you get certain tasks and projects done, even when you don’t want to and it will help you deliver high-quality work.
While some skills will help you get farther in your career than others, the above five are just a few soft skills that most employers look for regardless of the industry, job title, and pay. By possessing the above five skills, you will find you have an easier time acquiring jobs and you will be more motivated and engaged in the workplace.
