In the working world, it is not only about what you can do, but how you can do it. Employers are looking closer at soft skills in candidates to help them select the perfect employee from a group of qualified candidates.
Hard skills are specific, teachable abilities that can be defined and measured, such as the subjects you learn at university or at an FET college. The skills you have been taught with theory and practice are hard skills. Soft skills are personal attributes that enable you to interact effectively and harmoniously with other people, and are not easy to teach.
Consider practicing the 5 soft skills below to increase your chances of landing a fantastic job.
Ability to Solve Problems
Problem solving is not about being able to come up with a solution for each and every problem that you face in the workplace, but it does refer to your willingness to try! Did you know that more than half of recruiters say that they seek candidates with problem solving skills? Problem solving is especially important for candidates seeking managerial positions, as you need to be able to show initiative and demonstrate your capabilities to lead a team.
Good Verbal Communication
Recruiters are always looking for candidates with verbal communication as a soft skill. Poor communication skills often lead to misunderstandings which negatively impact workflow, personal performance and profit of the business.
Written communication is equally as important, but often comes hand in hand with good verbal communication skills.
Confidence in Yourself
An important soft skill recruiters look for is self-confidence. When a candidate is well-presented and speaks and moves with a strength and purpose, they are immediately more suitable to a recruiter. Modern businesses what employees who can assert themselves and who won’t back down from challenges.
Working Well with a Team
Of course, it is important for candidates to be able to work well as part of a team. Teamwork is a great way to problem solve, as each individual can give a unique perspective which enhances the process. Being able to work independently is a given, whilst teamwork doesn’t come naturally to everyone.
Ability to Accept Feedback
And finally, every candidate needs to be able to accept feedback from their manager. Whether it is positive or negative, feedback delivered in a constructive way is useful for personal growth. Candidates should try to ask for feedback regularly, and listen closely, before actively implementing changes to their process to improve them.
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