Introduction

Have you ever applied for a job thinking that your technical prowess alone was sufficient, and you weren’t offered the position? You are not alone.

Employers nowadays seek more than just qualifications and experience. Soft skills or behavioral skills are emerging as criteria for selection. According to a study by LinkedIn, 92 percent of the recruiters believe that soft skills are at least as important, if not more so, compared to hard skills. Now, what are the most sought-after skills, and how can you acquire them? Let’s see together!

1. Effective communication

The ability to express oneself orally and in writing is fundamental in every vocation. Whether you are presenting a project, sending a professional email, or persuading a client, good communication can make a difference.

How to improve it?

• Attend training on public speaking.
• Practice active listening and paraphrasing your interlocutor.
• Improve your skills in professional writing.

2. Emotional intelligence

Being able to manage one’s feelings and having the capacity to know other people’s emotions is one of the most important attributes in a workplace. This will enable one to cooperate better with others, resolve conflicts, and promote team cohesion.

How to develop it?

• Participate in stress and emotion management training.
• Practice mindfulness to be attuned to your responses.
• Watch videos and online course to develop your emotional intelligence.

3. Critical thinking and problem solving

Employers are looking for people who can analyze and come up with effective solutions. Critical thinking would prevent mistakes and contribute value to an organization.

How to advance?

• Take courses in logic and decision making.
• Practice problem solving with analysis of real-world cases.
• Feel free to watch a short course on topics where problems are solved like a data course.