Top CEO’s are now acknowledging that advanced soft skills and the ability to relate, inspire, build teams and bring people along are key components that businesses require for a potential leader and employee to possess.
If you want to get ahead you need to consider soft skills as a cornerstone and must-have component of your toolbox.
Five soft skills you need to develop to succeed are;-
Listening skills – In a world where everyone is clamouring to be noticed and get ahead, listening is one of the key skills to develop. Whilst everyone else in a meeting is trying to show pony with rehearsed speeches to get the bosses attention, it is the one that remains calm, present, listens and delivers that timely question or solution at just the right time that will ultimately win.
Communication skills – Advanced communication skills are key to building and maintaining relationships. They allow for the exchange of ideas, effective collaboration and the creation of a productive work environment.
Problem solving skills – Business relies on people that can take action and find solutions. Complaining will get you noticed for all the wrong reasons. Develop a solution focused persona; there will be plenty of time to say “wtf” to yourself behind closed doors at the end of the day.
Negotiation skills – A skilled negotiator knows how to persuade and influence whilst seeking a solution that will benefit all parties. Develop a win-win attitude and practice looking for solutions that benefit all. Skilled negotiators don’t burn people to get what they want. They know to play the short game and the long game.
Recognition skills - We all like to be recognised for the work we do. It gets us involved and encourages us to strive for excellence going forward. Recognise people for their accomplishments at meetings and forums, it gives others the opportunity to know what is being achieved and to congratulate them for work well done.
If you’re a technical expert but are not progressing at work, soft skills are the next skill you need to develop on your journey to success. Yes, it may feel unnatural and irrational to some, but success will always require us to do things we don’t particularly like and sometimes think are a waste of time. Don’t be stubborn, ultimately you will learn that what you think is a waste of time today, is the key to your success tomorrow.
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