In order to be successful in the modern business world, you need more than just hard skills; you also need soft skills. In fact, 54% of HR professionals place interpersonal skills among their top three hiring criteria, according to an article on the “Psychology Today” website by Eric Barker, author of Barking Up the Wrong Tree.
But what are soft skills? A complete definition of what is considered a soft skill will differ depending on who you ask, but generally speaking, it refers to interpersonal or behavioral traits that impact your ability to interact with others professionally. And it might surprise you to know that these soft skills can often trump hard ones when it comes to getting ahead. In fact, a study by The Center for Creative Leadership found that 90 percent of leadership success is due to “soft skills” like effective communication and emotional intelligence.
Here are 5 essential soft skills for the workplace:
- Communication
This involves more than just speaking clearly; it also means listening actively, understanding context, and adapting your communication style to different situations. Some tips: Be clear and concise; ask questions if you need clarification; show interest in other people’s perspectives; use non-verbal cues such as eye contact, gestures, and facial expressions to reinforce what you’re saying; avoid personal attacks or being overly critical of others’ ideas. - Time Management
Having good time-management skills doesn’t mean always being early everywhere you go. It does mean staying on top of deadlines, setting realistic goals for yourself, and managing distractions so that you can focus on the tasks at hand. - Problem-Solving — No matter where you work, problems will arise from time to time. Whether it’s an employee who needs guidance on new processes or a vendor who missed their deadline, problem-solving requires both planning and flexibility. Look for opportunities where small issues can become learning experiences instead of creating bigger problems down the road.
- Adaptability
Being adaptable means responding to change in a positive way instead of reacting negatively. Instead of feeling threatened by change, try approaching it as an opportunity to grow and improve. Learn how to say yes instead of no whenever possible and look for ways you can contribute even when things seem chaotic. - Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence refers to the ability to understand and regulate one’s own emotions and those of others, and to use this information to guide thinking and behavior. This skill is essential for building strong relationships, managing conflicts, and leading effectively.
In conclusion, soft skills, including emotional intelligence and time management, are crucial for success in the modern workplace. While some may possess these skills naturally, they can also be developed and improved with practice. Consider investing in training programs or seeking out resources to help you uncover and master these essential soft skills for long-term professional growth.
Agate Business Consulting offers tailored training programs to help you uncover and master these critical interpersonal skills for long-term professional growth.