How Soft Skills
Influence our Job Search and Our Employment
Soft skills are a very elusive qualification as a job seeker
and an employee. The interesting thing
is that employers are looking for them, so it seems we should explore them to
see how they influence not only the job search process but the process of
retention once you obtain that job.
Soft skills are un-measurable, meaning that they do not come
in a form of abstract evidence. They
require the use of language and past experiences to emphasize how they exist
and the value that they may possess.
Some examples of soft skills include, leadership skills, collaborative,
positive work attitude, willingness to learn, excellent communication and
interpersonal skills. All things being
equal, employers will look at the measurable qualities/or hard skills such as
certificates, diplomas, degrees,
computer and technical skills but when it comes right down to making a
decision between two candidates, the employer will select the one who presents
soft skills that fit best with their
work culture.
Some of these soft skills that influence you getting a job
include;
Positive attitude-influencing
customers and co-workers in a positive, light hearted way. Creating a culture of positive energy;
anything is possible environment.
Ability to multitask-
open to taking on new tasks; not prejudging whether a task is menial or
important- “just doing it” in order to keep the work process flowing.
Approachable/Good
Communicator- this is showing an interest in listening to others;
expressing an interest in others; being approachable and helpful.
Goal
oriented/Independent-this is an interesting soft skill in that an employer
isn’t looking for a lone ranger, more someone who can resolve things
independently, set objectives and carry them out.
How the soft skills come together….
Capturing soft skills on a resume can be a challenge. The
place to fully demonstrate these soft skills is during an interview and a
common VCCS technique is through the “prove it process”. The “prove it process”
is an exercise that our counsellors use to show how past employment and
volunteer scenarios demonstrate our variety of soft skills. For example, telling the employer about a
time when you demonstrated good communication skills. We all have them whether it is motivating a
child to get ready for school; encouraging a customer to purchase a specific
service or facilitating a training workshop at a local college.
Come in to VCCS and find out how to uncover those elusive
soft skills, build interesting stories around your unique soft skills through
the “prove it process”, practise articulating them in interview preparation and
wow a potential employer with your insights.
