Regardless of what industry you choose to work in, to continue to grow and increase your earning potential, you have to acquire new skills. This could mean going back to school, joining an association, or spending time reading professional development books. The skills you obtain can be vital to your success.
For example, if you are interested in finance MBA careers, you will do your homework to find out as much as you can about careers in finance. Take time to learn what you need to be successful. When searching for a job, you want to consider the skills needed for any path you might choose.
Hard Versus Soft
In career development, we often refer to the skills/abilities an employee must have to be considered suitable for recruitment, promotion, transfer, etc. These skills are distinguished in formal qualifications we acquire through education (diplomas, diplomas, certificates of knowledge, use of computers, language, etc.). These types of skills are referred to as “hard skills.” Soft skills are usually gained through experience and include people, communication, social skills, and social and emotional intelligence. It is essential to have both hard and soft skills, making you stand out from the crowd of well-trained professionals. Having these skills could be a determining factor in finding or not finding a job.
Many business consulting companies and head hunters have highlighted the importance of “soft skills.” Why? Because they do affect a candidate’s recruitment and future career in the job market. How important are they? Well, to summarize things, “hard skills” can get you the interview, but you need the “soft skills” to get – and most importantly, keep the job. One of the key soft skills you need to learn is communication.
Communication is everything!
Many people take communication for granted. However, communication is vital if you want to excel in your work. You must be able to speak to people with confidence as well as be able to convey information. Without this, you could have misunderstandings that lead to missed deadlines. A business may not achieve its goals if it has not properly communicated them to team members. Or, by not asking questions, you could find yourself assuming or passing judgment on something you have all wrong.
When we fail to communicate, things can be easily lost in translation. Always try to speak and write in a way that is clear and concise. Do not be afraid to ask questions, especially when you don’t understand something. And, take time to really listen to what someone is saying to you. You want to observe body language as well; sometimes, it’s about the things that aren’t said. Real communication takes some effort and, if you want to be successful, it is a skill you should continuously work on.
As you progress in your career or with your business, you want to seek ways to continue learning, growing, and achieving greater success. One way to do this is to acquire new skills. Look to enhance the things you are already good at, and as you do, you will be able to stand out above the crowd. If you would like to learn more about developing your soft skills, contact me to schedule a time to talk. Here’s to YOUR success!
Carolyn R. Owens has over 25 years of proven experience and serves as a Career Strategist, Executive, and Leadership Coach. She is the President of Infinity Coaching, Inc., where she can help you up-level your skills so that you can up-level your income, career, business, or life. Infinity Coaching, Inc. provides organizational training and one-on-one and group coaching. She is also the host of “Let’s Coach with Carolyn.” You can listen to the show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or wherever you enjoy listening to podcasts.
