There are many factors that determine how successful you are as an employee. Hard skills are huge because they ensure you have the technical abilities to perform the job. But soft skills are arguably just as critical.
What Are Soft Skills and Why Are They Important?
“Soft skills refer to a cluster of personal qualities, habits, attitudes and social graces that make someone a good employee and compatible to work with, says communications strategist Kate Lorenz. “Companies value soft skills because research suggests and experience shows that they can be just as important as an indicator of job performance as soft skills.”
Having a nice mix of hard and soft skills makes you a well-rounded employee and puts you in a position to thrive. Here are some specific soft skills employers are looking for.
Problem-Solving Abilities
Fast Company reports the ability to efficiently solve problems as the number one soft skill recruiters are seeking at 62 percent. With new challenges popping up each workday, it’s important you’re able to improvise and overcome them.
Adaptability
Being flexible/adaptable was the number two most desired soft skill among recruiters at 49 percent. It’s clear that managers seek employees who can roll with the punches and make necessary adjustments when needed. So it’s nice to possess creativity and out-of-the-box thinking.
Great Communication
You may have to collaborate with your fellow co-workers, take directions from managers and interact with customers on any given day. Therefore, communication is a highly valued soft skill in the modern workforce.
Working Well Within a Team
Piggybacking off the last point, it’s also important to be able to function well within a team. Making key contributions, cooperating and having a willingness to fulfill whatever role you’re given are all essential.
Organization
Fast Company also says 39 percent of recruiters found organization to be a desirable soft skill. This may include knowing how to minimize clutter, keeping your workspace tidy and effectively organizing projects. Time management is also a part of it, where you’re skilled at prioritizing tasks to ensure projects are completed on time.
There are some definitive soft skills today’s employers are looking for. Mastering them is a great way to grab a recruiter’s attention and should increase your chances of landing a job.
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