Shape your career success with strategic thinking, problem solving and effective communication
Your path to success is not just about your skill at your job. It's also about the softer, more human skills that make the difference in your professional growth.
Soft skills—those things that don't have to do with the technical aspect of your job but rather how you handle yourself and others—are like the secret weapons of the workplace.
The contemporary workplace requires you to have a complex combination of technical acumen, known as “hard skills,” and intangible attributes—the often neglected “soft skills.”
Kelli Hall, director of recruiting at Enova International, puts it clearly: “For many employers, soft skills are just as important as hard skills. This is because success in the workplace often requires more than technical ability. to get the job done. Skills are what make the difference.”
A recent report from Springboard for Business gives us a look at the soft skills companies are really looking for right now. At the top of the list is strategic thinking. More than half of leaders, 57% to be exact, say their companies need more people who can think strategically.
Chris Duchesne, CEO of Springboard for Business, notes: “With the economy in a state of flux, critical thinking is essential in this pivot-or-die environment where businesses must be strategic and adapt quickly to remain competitive.”
The report also mentions the need for problem solving (49%) and good communication skills (46%). Emotional intelligence and being good at working with others round out the list.
As we hear more and more about how quickly technology changes, it's interesting to note that 79% of leaders think technical skills only last about five years or less. This is where social skills become even more important.
Duchesne explains: “Soft skills are even more essential to adapt and meet new challenges as AI continues to dramatically change all industries. These competencies cannot be outsourced to AI in the same way as technical skills. They are also skills key leadership concepts applicable in all sectors. function and at all levels.”
So if you're looking for a job, it's time to pay attention to your interpersonal skills. When employers have a mountain of resumes to review, making sure your soft skills stand out can be a game-changer. Use words like “facilitated,” “presented,” “negotiated,” and “implemented” to showcase your interpersonal skills on your resume.
When it comes to interviews, interpersonal skills can set you apart from the crowd. Duchesne suggests talking about his past experiences to highlight his critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Why is all this important for companies?
Well, employees who have a good command of these soft skills not only perform well themselves, but also strengthen their teams and the entire organization.
Duchesne explains: “They become catalysts for innovation, efficiency and growth. The consistent superior performance of these employees highlights a clear correlation between mastery of interpersonal skills and career success.”
In a world where things continue to change, the demand for interpersonal skills remains constant. So, as you navigate your professional journey, remember that having a balance between hard and soft skills is like having the perfect compass to steer your ship towards success.
