Find out which skills will give you an edge on the job hunt
Soft skills are key attributes that professionals need to develop throughout their careers in order to communicate effectively with co-workers, clients and others around them. In the job market, those who have honed their soft skills fare better than those who did not. This is because employers are looking for candidates who bring more than just technical knowledge to the table.
Before you apply to your next career opportunity, take a moment to reflect on a few soft skills that you should add to your background in order to stand out from the crowd.
Understanding non-verbal cues
Many individuals might associate communication with spoken or written word. However, a great deal of communication lies in our non-verbal cues. Nearly 80% of our communication is actually non-verbal and facial expressions. Body language and eye contact are just a few ways we express our thoughts and emotions without even uttering a word.
A crucial part of soft skills is communication. By understanding body language, eye contact, and even posture, you will be able to present yourself better and pick up on how others in the room might be feeling as well. Being aware of how your non-verbal cues are being interpreted showcases a high level of emotional intelligence.
Being a good listener
Listening can be difficult to master, but it’s a lifelong skill that should be developed. A good listener pays close attention to the words that are being said along with any non-verbal cues that might be projected. Asking questions, repeating sentences back, and taking notes are great ways to become a top-notch listener.
Being a great listener means that you are more likely to accomplish your tasks in the most effective and efficient ways possible. Failing to hone in on this skill could make you more prone to making mistakes and errors in your work.
Conflict resolution and mediation skills
As much as we try to avoid it, disagreements happen in the workplace. Coming to an amicable agreement can only be achieved if the individuals involved have strong mediation skills. Employers want to keep the work environment positive and collaborative, and soft skills like mediation can play a role in finding a solution while making sure everyone’s voice is heard.
It’s vital to have the ability to discuss your feelings, listen to the other party and eventually compromise on an agreement in the most professional manner possible. Talking through difficult situations and finding a solution that will make both sides happy will lead to professional growth.
Your workplace is where you will spend plenty of your time, so it’s easy to understand why having great communication with your co-workers is vital. At Professional Skills Institute, we have a team of Career Services Specialists who are eager to help you develop your soft skills. Visit ProSkills.edu to schedule your visit.
