38 www.blackeoejournal.com Black EOE Journal
CAREERS
I
n the workplace, skills are separated by being either hard skills or soft skills. Hard skills are generally easier to come by than soft skills. There is a need for both types of skills in the workplace, however, finding an individual that possesses both hard and soft skills can be challenging for many recruiters. It is possible to have both types of skills, but it will take some work. I find that most of my colleagues are either in one group or the other, with a few that possess both types of skills. The important question is, what is a soft skill? Do you know the difference between a hard and soft skill?
Soft Skills You Need
Hard skills are things like being skilled in SQL server management or Javascript programming. It is easy to convey your hard skills to a recruiter or hiring manager by giving them a resume and pointing out your certifications and/or experiences. Some employers test your hard skills by giving you a pre-employment test or having you go through a round of technical interviews. With soft skills, it's much more difficult to vet them in the interview process. Soft skills are more in line with creativity, interpersonal communication, presentation skills, etc. For the purpose of this article, lets focus on what the top soft skills are and how you can gain them or improve upon the skills you have.
1.
Creativity
Everyone needs to improve upon their creativity skill. The explosion of the Internet has zapped our ability to have original creative thoughts, it seems. How many websites like Pinterest or Etsy exist where people showcase their creativity? There are a lot! Any time we need an idea or need to find a way to do something, we turn to the Internet. We need to experience a renaissance of creativity in the world, especially in the workplace. Come up with good ideas, brainstorm with your team and do something original. Creativity is one of the most desired soft skills in the workplace; shore up your creativity and get yourself out there.
Stand Out from the Crowd:
Top 5 Soft Skills in Demand
By Greg Stuart
2.
Communication
It is so hard to work with people who just cannot communicate effectively. Communication is another soft skill that is in high demand. According to Career Contessa, Communication soft skills are the tools you use to clearly and effectively converse with others, set expectations, and work with others on projects. How important is that? Everyone needs to be able to work with a team and to clearly communicate their needs and expectations in the workplace. Become a better communicator by collaborating with your team and sharing your insight. Communication isnt just verbal either; be aware of your body language and make sure you are not being closed off or confrontational.
3.
Adaptability
Change is very difficult for many to adapt to, but in the workplace, it is an absolute necessity. When change comes, and it will, you need to be able to adapt to it and keep moving forward. Unfortunately, for a lot of people, when chance comes, they freeze and become inflexible and then end up out of a job or unable to perform their job satisfactorily. When your organization implements Agile methodology
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