Soft skills are non-technical skills such as interpersonal behaviours, personality traits and abilities that help you perform your role and succeed in the workplace. These skills are developed throughout life and strengthened during your career. They are transferable across jobs and industries and are critical for long-term success.
What Are the Top 10 Soft Skills?
The National Skills Commission has identified ten core competencies, also called foundational or employability skills, that are essential for every occupation in Australia. Understanding these skills can help you when applying for jobs and planning your career.
1. Teamwork
Working effectively with others and building strong connections for work and learning.
2. Initiative and Innovation
Taking responsibility, starting projects, and generating creative solutions to adapt to change.
3. Planning and Organising
Setting goals, prioritising tasks and managing time to complete work efficiently.
4. Oral Communication
Speaking clearly, listening actively and understanding conversations.
5. Digital Literacy
Using technology confidently, creatively and critically.
6. Reading
Interpreting and understanding written information.
7. Writing
Communicating effectively in writing for different audiences.
8. Problem Solving
Identifying issues, evaluating options and implementing solutions.
9. Learning
Applying new information to improve decision-making and problem-solving.
10. Numeracy
Understanding numbers and using mathematics to solve problems.
Soft Skills and Your CV or Resume
When preparing your CV or resume, include the soft skills that are most relevant to the role. A good approach is to list four or five key soft skills in your Profile or Professional Summary section. This helps employers quickly see the strengths you bring to the role.
How Can I Strengthen My Soft Skills?
If you feel your soft skills need improvement, try these strategies:
- Seek feedback from colleagues or mentors
- Volunteer for projects that require collaboration or leadership
- Take online courses or workshops focused on communication, problem-solving or teamwork
- Practise active listening and empathy in everyday interactions
Soft skills are essential for career success. By developing these skills, you can improve your performance, strengthen relationships and open doors to new opportunities.
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