Toughen Up Your Soft Skills

by Paige Faber, ACDC Peer Advisor

“Soft skills” is a phrase not commonly used that contains skills that most of us possess naturally. Soft skills are characteristics that are not easily taught, but are crucial to your success in any type of job. Evaluate your strength in these five soft skills elaborated below.

Communication

In any job you have, you will need to be able to communicate with others, whether that’s a manager, employees, or customers. Employers want to know that you are able to effectively communicate your thoughts and can do so confidently and comfortably. Strong communication can convey your ability to work with others.

Critical Thinking

Another important skill for you to have is critical thinking. It’s necessary for you to think creatively and make logical decisions for the tasks under your position in order to be successful and to stand out to your employer.

Leadership

No matter what position you hold at your organization, you will have to be able to be a leader. Leading isn’t always about standing in front of subordinates and delegating duties, but it is most often displayed by example. Employers want workers who can lead their coworkers through their actions and demeanor.

Positive Attitude

Have you ever had to work with a “Debbie Downer” and just felt their negative energy bringing down the morale of the group? This is exactly the opposite of what businesses are looking for. Even if you are not inherently happy, you can still act in a positive manner. People want to work with someone who is optimistic and pleasant, so work on your happy face!

Work Ethic

This skill might be one of the most difficult to strengthen for you, if you do not have a strong work ethic already. Ambitious, self-motivated workers are the caviar of today’s workforce. With increasingly less managerial supervision, companies need to know that you are still working efficiently without someone having to constantly look over your shoulder.

Need help showing off your soft skills in a job interview? Contact us at 402.554.3672 to make an appointment for a mock interview with an ACDC advisor or check out our website.