Soft skills are non-technical skills that promote productivity, efficiency, and effective communication in the workplace. Some soft skills can also be part of your personality or work ethic. These skills are often transferable across roles and industries and are necessary in every level of the workplace.
It is important to show employers you can work well with others and these skills are critical for success in most careers, as they help you build and maintain relationships, navigate complex situations, and achieve your goals.
Soft skills are essential to creating a positive workplace environment. In addition, social abilities such as communication, time management, critical thinking, and teamwork help an individual stay motivated and increase the productivity of those around them.
Take a moment to think about which soft skills you possess and which others you need to work on.
Teamwork
Teamwork skills are the qualities that allow you to work well with others and include the ability to relate, communicate, and collaborate in reaching goals.
Problem Solving
Problem-solvers are gifted thinkers who specialise in finding solutions to obstacles. Problem-solving skills allow you to identify an issue, research possible solutions, use logical trial and error, and establish ways to prevent the issue from repeating itself. Like many other soft skills, experience and knowledge can improve your efficiency and effectiveness.
Communication
This is how you express your thoughts, ideas, and feelings to others as well as understand those you interact with at work.
Time Management
This is the ability to properly manage your time. It includes things like knowing how to prioritise tasks, meeting deadlines, and setting effective goals.
Organisation
This soft skill involves being organised, efficient, and able to prioritise tasks based on their importance and urgency.
Critical Thinking
This is the ability to analyse facts to reach a decision. Critical thinking is exceptionally helpful for making important decisions and solving more complex problems, so employers seek out candidates with this skill to promote growth and improve company-wide processes.
Positive Attitude
People with a positive attitude are more eager to work, demonstrate self-motivation, and can interact well with others. These types of people are great to be around, and their energy is contagious.
Creativity
Creativity is the ability to come up with new ideas. It is often used alongside other soft skills, including teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.