Employers are increasingly looking for candidates with strong soft skills. These are the interpersonal behaviours, personality traits and abilities that help you interact effectively and perform well in the workplace. Examples include creativity, communication, active listening, teamwork, time management and adaptability.
If you feel your soft skills need improvement, here are some practical steps you can take:
1. Ask for Feedback
Start by understanding your strengths and areas for development. Ask friends, family, trusted colleagues or past managers for feedback on the soft skills they have observed. This insight will help you identify gaps and plan how to improve.
2. Take on a New Challenge
Once you know which skills to work on, look for opportunities to practise them. At work, this could include:
- Leading or joining a new project
- Taking responsibility for a specific task
- Running a meeting or discussion
- Writing a report or taking minutes
- Organising an event or function
Outside of work, consider activities such as:
- Volunteering for a charity or community group
- Playing or coaching a team sport
- Joining a professional association and attending networking events
- Taking a class, such as drama or public speaking
Choose activities that align with the skills you want to develop.
3. Consider Soft Skills Training
If you need structured learning, explore short courses or microcredentials. Topics might include:
- Critical thinking and problem solving
- People management
- Emotional intelligence
- Time management and leadership
Training is available through online platforms and local providers. Check professional associations for courses relevant to your industry.
4. Practice Your Skills
Improvement comes with practice. Apply what you learn in real situations and keep building your confidence. The more you practise, the stronger your skills will become.
How to ask for feedback after an interview
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