If you’re looking for a new job, you may have a bundle of questions. Common worries are, “What if I don’t have the right qualifications?” or “What if other candidates are better than me?”
These are common worries, and “imposter syndrome” creeps in for many. You know, the feeling that you don’t have the right skills to do the job you want. That feeling hits most of us from time to time, and can actually lead to procrastination. For example, “I’ll apply for a new job once I learn XYZ.”
You need to remember two important things. First, job roles and responsibilities are constantly changing. Technology and industry needs evolve all the time, and jobs pop up to meet new and developing needs. So by procrastinating, you’re actually setting yourself up for a situation where you never quite feel ready to apply for a new job.
Second, it’s important to remember that beyond the basics like education and training, many skills can be learned on the job. And one way to show an employer that you’re the type of person who can easily learn new things on the job is by showcasing your soft skills.
Soft skills are those skills that are easily transferrable to any job. By showing that you have them, you help prove to a potential employer that you’re a valuable worker beyond just the basic qualifications. And valuable workers are the ones employers are eager to bring on board and train for those “nice to have” qualifications listed in the requirements section of the job description.
What are top soft skills?
Now that you’re convinced soft skills are important, which soft skills are employers looking for the most? These include:
- Creativity. If you are a creative problem solver, you show a potential employer that you can take available resources and apply them in new and innovative ways. This is important for companies looking to grow and develop.
- Communication. Being able to transfer information and ideas to your coworkers is essential in any job. Listening, speaking, and writing (like in emails) are all key communication skills.
- Leadership. This is a skill that is important at every level of a company. Being able to jump in and help those around you takes the burden off your boss, and shows that you’re a born leader (and promotable).
Ready for your next job?
Just pepper those soft skills into your resume and get ready to apply. Oh, and check out the job listings from Snelling Georgia Group. We specialize in helping people find jobs they love, and we want to meet you!
