HAVE YOU ADDED THESE ‘SOFT SKILLS’ TO YOUR CV?

Employers and recruitment agencies are not looking only for work experience, technical skills and qualifications: they’re also looking for specific ‘soft skills’. Here’s what you need to know.

---

WHAT ARE ‘SOFT SKILLS’?
Research has found that soft skills account for 85% of career success. But what are they? Soft skills are essential skills that are not usually gained through studying for a qualification. In theory, they can be taught, but they are typically thought of as character traits, or skills honed through socialisation (such as effective communication skills). Historically, they were not skills that could be measured in the same way that technical skills can – yet more and more companies are employing tools and tests to evaluate prospective employees’ soft skills, and they are certainly looking out for these skills on CVs.

But what are these skills, specifically, and what should you be highlighting on your CV?

COMMUNICATION
Well, duh. It sounds obvious, but employers still want to see that you understand the importance of effective communication skills in their various forms. Can you demonstrate your capacity to engage with colleagues or clients and present ideas persuasively? When adding this skill to your CV, be specific: highlight your ability to articulate ideas clearly, listen actively and convey information concisely.

TEAMWORK
Can you get along with your colleagues? Can you collaborate to achieve the goals of your team and employer? You could highlight this proficiency on your CV by emphasising your ability to contribute positively to office dynamics (a ‘team player’), resolve conflicts constructively and support others when needed.

PROBLEM SOLVING
Employers are looking for candidates who can identify problems, analyse challenges, and brainstorm solutions. When adding this to your CV, try to provide an example of having applied this skill in a previous work environment. Point out your analytical skills, creativity and resourcefulness in overcoming obstacles.

LEADERSHIP
Even if you’re not applying for a managerial position, leadership skills are always in demand, and they may speak to your long-term potential for providing value to the employer. Attractive leadership qualities include the ability to motivate others, delegate tasks, hold others (and yourself) accountable and taking initiative, rather than waiting to be told what to do.

ADAPTABILITY
The pace at which the working world is changing is enough to give you whiplash – which means employers are looking for people who are resilient in the face of adversity, can thrive in an unpredictable work environment, and are willing to upgrade their skill set as needed.

Again, any examples from your career that you can provide of instances in which you adjusted quickly to a new situation (the pandemic? A merger with another company? Budget cuts?) and were able to turn it to your – and your employer’s – advantage, will score points with your prospective boss.

PSSST…
Other soft skills to consider adding include time management, creativity, attention to detail, responsibility, integrity, professionalism, empathy, self-motivating, ability to work independently, and a positive attitude.