Five Soft Skills to Master

With access to great education and resources in today’s day and age, many people will be qualified for a job or opportunity on paper. The competition is fierce! With that, what truly makes a person stand out? What makes a person gain someone’s trust?  What gives a person a memorable edge? 

Did you know, according to a Harvard-Stanford study, 85% of professional success comes from well-developed soft skills. The Oxford Dictionary defines soft skills as, “personal attributes that enable someone to interact effectively and harmoniously with other people.” When I referred to this study on social media, I had many people comment saying that they should be called something other than “soft skills” because of their significance. My favorite suggestion was “power skills.” I truly believe these are the skills that provide people with an edge that can’t be ignored, but the data speaks for itself. 

These “power skills” are directly related to emotional intelligence, and etiquette and emotional intelligence go hand-in-hand. Let’s explore what I believe to be five of the most important soft (or power!) skills to master to help give you a memorable edge.

1. Professionalism
   Don’t underestimate the power of the “simple” things such as being punctual, dressing the part, conducting yourself with integrity, showing your team respect, and taking pride in your work.
   
   

2. Strong Communication
   When you can master the art of connecting with people, it will unlock so many doors of opportunity for you.  Some key skills within this category are learning how to give and receive feedback, ask the right questions, delegate, collaborate, listen effectively, market yourself, and network.
   
   

3. Enthusiasm & Passion
   Someone who shows up each day with passion and enthusiasm brings a necessary energy to a team or industry to help them move forward in the right direction. They are leaders whether or not they realize it yet.
   
   

4. Organization & Time Management
   Honing your organizational and time management skills are key ways to build trust and credibility with your peers and executive teams. People will always want to work with people who they can trust will deliver and exceed expectations.
   
   

5. Work Ethic
   There is something to be said for someone who constantly takes initiative, is always willing to learn, and is confident enough to know they may not have all of the answers or skills yet, but won’t stop until they do.

Photo Credits: AMC’s Mad Men via midcenturymodernist.com