presentation of soft skills

Soft skills presentation: A comprehensive guide

How to present with confidence and clarity and manage your time and stress.

Raja Bothra

Building presentations

Welcome to a comprehensive guide on creating an effective soft skills presentation.

Whether you're a seasoned professional looking to enhance your skills or a newcomer eager to make a strong impression, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques needed to excel in the world of soft skills presentations.

What are soft skills?

Before we dive into the intricacies of creating a powerful soft skills presentation, it's crucial to understand what soft skills are and why they are integral in various aspects of life.

Soft skills, often referred to as interpersonal or people skills, are the non-technical abilities that enable us to interact harmoniously with others. These skills are not confined to a specific job or industry, making them universally valuable. They encompass a wide array of competencies, from effective communication and teamwork to adaptability, creativity, and problem-solving.

"The most effective way to improve your soft skills is through continuous learning and practice. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, for that's where true growth happens."

Different types of soft skills

As we delve deeper into the realm of soft skills, it becomes evident that these personal attributes come in a wide array of forms, each playing a unique and pivotal role in shaping our personal and professional lives. Let's embark on a journey to closely examine these essential skills that are the cornerstone of effective and harmonious interactions.

1. Communication skills: The art of connection

At the core of soft skills lies the mastery of communication. These skills form the bedrock of effective interaction and involve both verbal and non-verbal communication. They encompass not only the words we use but also how we convey them through our body language and tone of voice. Exceptional communication skills empower individuals to convey their ideas with precision, actively listen to others, and foster the building of robust and enduring relationships.

2. Presentation skills: Conveying clarity and impact

Among the diverse set of soft skills, presentation skills stand out as a fundamental capability. The art of presenting enables individuals to convey information, ideas, and messages with a profound sense of clarity and impact. In a world where visual and auditory engagement is paramount, mastering the art of presentation is a valuable skill.

PPT Presentations serve as a common tool in the business world, allowing you to not only tell but show your message. Engaging your audience visually and audibly enhances the effectiveness of your message, making it more compelling and memorable.

3. Leadership and management: Guiding towards success

Leadership and management skills play a pivotal role in guiding teams and organizations towards success. Effective leaders inspire and motivate their team members, propelling them to achieve their goals. They possess the ability to make critical decisions and ensure the smooth functioning of any project or endeavor.

Effective management, on the other hand, involves delegating tasks efficiently and providing constructive feedback. These skills are vital in any organization, where success hinges on the ability to lead and manage effectively.

4. Teamwork and collaboration: The power of cooperation

Teamwork and collaboration skills are essential for working effectively with others. In a world interconnected by complex projects and goals, the ability to cooperate, share ideas, and contribute to a collective effort is indispensable.

Working collaboratively requires not only technical competence but also interpersonal skills that foster a sense of unity within a team. It's about understanding the dynamics of group interactions and being able to compromise, share credit, and appreciate the contributions of others.

5. Problem-solving and decision-making: Navigating challenges

Life is replete with challenges, and soft skills play a significant role in overcoming them. Problem-solving and decision-making skills enable individuals to tackle obstacles creatively and effectively. It's not just about finding solutions; it's also about thinking critically and making sound decisions in a dynamic and ever-changing world.

These skills are invaluable in scenarios where critical thinking and creative solutions are required, whether in personal life or within a professional context.

Soft skills, as you can see, encompass a rich tapestry of capabilities that are essential for success in all aspects of life, from building relationships and communicating effectively to solving problems and achieving your goals. They empower individuals to thrive in diverse settings and navigate the complexities of an interconnected world.

In addition to the skills mentioned above, soft skills also include:

• Creativity : The ability to think outside the box and generate novel ideas.
• Critical thinking : The capacity to evaluate information and make informed judgments.
• Empathy : The skill of understanding and relating to the emotions and perspectives of others.
• Ethics : Upholding moral principles and conducting oneself with integrity.
• Motivation : The drive to achieve goals and overcome challenges.
• Negotiation skills : The art of reaching agreements and resolving conflicts.
• Organization skills : The ability to manage time and resources efficiently.
• Positive attitude : Approaching situations with optimism and a constructive mindset.
• Time management skills : Effectively managing one's time and priorities.

These skills are the threads that weave the fabric of effective interaction and personal development. Whether in the workplace or daily life, they provide the tools for success and personal growth. So, embrace the diversity of soft skills, cultivate them, and watch as they empower you to thrive in all areas of your life.

Why soft skills presentation is important?

Understanding the importance of soft skills presentation is key to excelling in various areas of your life. These skills are highly sought after by employers, as they enhance your professional performance and help you stand out from the crowd. Here are some reasons why soft skills presentations are critical:

Elevating employability: Your passport to dream opportunities

In today's fiercely competitive job market, soft skills can be the golden ticket that sets you apart and lands you your dream job. Employers are increasingly recognizing the immense value of candidates who possess exceptional soft skills. Here's why:

• Effective communication : The ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and non-verbally, is highly prized by employers. It's not just about speaking; it's about conveying ideas with precision, listening actively, and fostering connections with colleagues and clients.
• Teamwork and collaboration : In the modern workplace, collaboration is king. Those who can work harmoniously with others, share ideas, and lead with confidence are sought after. Soft skills presentations demonstrate your capacity to be a valuable team player.

Nurturing interpersonal relationships: building bridges, not walls

The ability to cultivate and maintain healthy relationships is at the core of successful personal and professional interactions. Whether you find yourself negotiating with a colleague, resolving a conflict, or seeking to build strong connections, soft skills presentations are your invaluable allies. Here's how they make a difference:

• Trust and rapport building : When you present yourself confidently and with clarity, you pave the way for trust and rapport to flourish. People are more likely to trust and engage with someone who communicates effectively.
• Persuasive power : Your soft skills presentation can elevate your ability to make a compelling argument. Engaging and informative presentations are more likely to persuade others to align with your ideas, support your cause, or endorse your solutions.

Supercharging leadership abilities: Guiding the way to success

As you ascend the career ladder, leadership skills become increasingly vital. Effective leadership can significantly influence your team's performance and contribute to overall success. Soft skills presentations play a crucial role in shaping effective leaders. Here's how:

• Inspiration and motivation : Effective leaders inspire and motivate their team members to achieve their goals. They convey their ideas with clarity and impact, empowering their teams to excel.
• Delegation and feedback : Leadership is not just about guiding; it's about delegating tasks effectively and providing constructive feedback. Soft skills presentations reinforce your ability to lead with purpose and precision.

Excelling in customer relations: The art of presentation

For those in customer-facing roles, the ability to present yourself and your product or service can be the difference between sealing the deal or losing an opportunity. Strong soft skills presentations are your secret weapon. Here's how they enhance customer relations:

• Creating satisfaction : The presentation of your product or service, along with your ability to convey its value, directly impacts customer satisfaction. Satisfied customers are more likely to return and become loyal patrons.
• Winning sales : A compelling presentation can tip the scales in your favor during sales pitches. Engaging your audience visually and audibly enhances the effectiveness of your message, making it more convincing and memorable.

How to structure an effective soft skills presentation

Structuring an effective soft skills presentation is a vital component in engaging your audience and conveying the significance of these interpersonal competencies. Regardless of whether you're addressing employees, students, or any other audience, a well-organized presentation can have a profound impact. Let's explore how to structure an engaging and informative soft skills presentation:

Introduction: Grabbing your audience's attention

• Begin with impact : Start with a compelling opening that instantly captures your audience's attention. You can employ a relevant anecdote, a thought-provoking quote, or a surprising statistic related to the importance of soft skills in personal and professional success. This initial hook sets the stage for an engaging presentation.
• Define soft skills : Clarify what soft skills are. These are non-technical, interpersonal attributes that are pivotal for effective communication, collaboration, and overall success in various facets of life. Provide real-life examples to make the concept relatable.
• Emphasize significance : Highlight why soft skills matter in today's fast-paced, interconnected world. Explore their contribution to individual and organizational success, emphasizing their impact on career advancement and personal relationships. Use statistics and practical scenarios to illustrate the significance.

Key soft skills: Delving into the essentials

• Dedicate sections : Allocate sections of your presentation to specific soft skills. For each skill, provide a clear definition, its significance, and practical ways to develop and enhance it. Use case studies, hands-on exercises, and anecdotes to demonstrate the importance of each skill in real-world situations.
• Interactive activities : Integrate interactive activities or group exercises that allow your audience to actively practice and experience the soft skills you're discussing. These hands-on activities make the presentation engaging and offer participants a tangible feel for the practical application of these skills.
• Tips for improvement : Offer actionable tips and strategies for improving soft skills. Provide guidance on how to enhance communication, emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and other key attributes. Share valuable resources, recommend books, and suggest online courses to support skill development.
• Real-life examples : Share success stories of individuals or organizations that have benefited from honing their soft skills. Emphasize how these skills led to enhanced collaboration, more effective leadership, and personal growth. Real-life examples add depth and credibility to your presentation.
• Challenges and obstacles : Acknowledge the challenges and obstacles individuals may encounter when trying to improve their soft skills. Address common misconceptions and resistance to change, and provide practical solutions and insights to help your audience overcome these barriers.

Conclusion: Reinforcing the message

• Summarize key points : In the conclusion, recap the key takeaways from your presentation. Reiterate the importance of soft skills and the impact they can have on personal and professional success.
• Inspire action : Encourage your audience to take action by setting specific goals for soft skill development. Stress that soft skills are an ongoing journey of self-improvement and personal growth.

Q&A and discussion: Engaging your audience

• Open the floor : Provide an opportunity for questions and discussion. This segment allows your audience to seek clarification, share their thoughts, and relate personal experiences related to soft skills.

Closing remarks: Motivating change

• End with a powerful statement : Conclude your presentation with a motivating and impactful closing statement. Encourage your audience to apply what they've learned and reinforce the idea that developing soft skills is a continuous process of self-enhancement.

Handouts and resources: Equipping your audience

• Provide resources : Offer handouts or a list of additional resources, including recommended books, websites, and workshops, where your audience can further explore and develop their soft skills. Equipping them with valuable resources supports their ongoing learning journey.

By adhering to this structured approach, you can create a compelling soft skills presentation that not only educates your audience but also motivates them to take action. Your presentation becomes a catalyst for positive change, empowering individuals to improve their interpersonal and professional lives. Soft skills are not just taught; they are experienced and embraced, making your presentation a pivotal stepping stone on the path to self-improvement and success.

Do’s and don'ts of a soft skills presentation

Now that we've covered the essentials of creating a soft skills presentation, let's explore some key do's and don'ts to ensure your presentation is effective and well-received.

• Practice : Rehearse your presentation multiple times to ensure a smooth and confident delivery.
• Engage your audience : Encourage interaction and questions to keep your audience actively involved.
• Use visuals : Incorporate visually appealing presentation slides and graphic aids to enhance understanding.
• Tell stories : Use relatable stories to illustrate the importance and impact of soft skills.
• Provide resources : Offer your audience additional resources, such as free downloadable PDFs, books, or workshops, to support their learning.

Don'ts

• Overwhelm with information : Avoid overloading your presentation with too much information. Keep it concise and focused.
• Lack of preparation : Don't wing your presentation. Adequate preparation is key to a successful presentation.
• Monotone delivery : Maintain an engaging and lively tone. Verbal communication is as important as the content itself.
• Ignoring body language : Pay attention to your own body language and that of your audience. Maintain eye contact and open postures to establish trust.
• Rushing through : Don't rush through your presentation. Take your time to ensure your audience grasps the content.

Summarizing key takeaways

• Soft skills are non-technical, interpersonal abilities that are universally valuable, encompassing areas such as communication, presentation, leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and more.
• Soft skills presentations are important for enhancing employability, nurturing relationships, supercharging leadership abilities, and excelling in customer relations.
• Structuring an effective soft skills presentation involves an engaging introduction, defining soft skills, emphasizing their significance, delving into specific skills, interactive activities, tips for improvement, real-life examples, addressing challenges, and a motivating conclusion.
• In a soft skills presentation, do practice, engage your audience, use visuals, tell relatable stories, and provide additional resources. Don't overwhelm with information, lack preparation, deliver in a monotone manner, ignore body language, or rush through the content.

1. How can I improve my speech during a soft skills presentation?

During a soft skills presentation, it's essential to enhance your speech proficiency. Practice speaking clearly and slowly to ensure that your message is effectively conveyed to your audience. Don't rush through your words; take it step by step. If you're struggling, don't be afraid to download speech exercises online to help you out.

2. What role does body movement play in a successful soft skills presentation?

Body movement can add interest to your presentation and help you express yourself more effectively. Appropriate movement, such as gesturing to emphasize points, can make your speech more engaging. It doesn't mean you should dance around the stage, but subtle movements can help maintain your audience's attention.

3. How can I design an engaging powerpoint for my soft skills presentation?

Designing a compelling powerpoint presentation is vital for keeping your audience engaged. Make sure to incorporate visual elements that complement your speech and don't overpower it. The design of your slides should respect the overall theme and message you want to convey. Include images, but don't overdo it, as too much detail can distract your audience.

4. What are some tricks to handle nervousness during an interview-style soft skills presentation?

Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but there are tricks to help you manage your anxiety. One such trick is to smile when appropriate. Smiling can make you appear more approachable and confident, even if you can't think of the perfect response instantly. Remember that a little nervousness doesn't mean you're unqualified for the job; it's a natural response to the situation.

Here is a guide on interview presentation .

5. Why is proper grammar usage so important in soft skills presentations?

The use of correct grammar plays a vital role in conveying your ideas clearly and professionally. Improper grammar can risk muddling your message and may lead to miscommunication. To ensure you present yourself well, do your grammar homework and proofread your content. Always remember to paraphrase when necessary to make your ideas more concise and understandable.

Create your soft skills presentation with prezent

Prezent, the communication success platform for enterprise teams, offers a powerful solution for enhancing your soft skills presentation. With its AI presentation tool, Prezent enables you to craft engaging and brand-compliant presentations effortlessly. Leveraging personalized fingerprints and a versatile presentation builder, you can tailor your content to the preferences of your audience, fostering a more effective connection.

Prezent's business storytelling resources, including guides and e-courses, assist in structuring your soft skills presentation with finesse. Moreover, the platform's real-time sharing and collaboration features facilitate seamless teamwork, whether with colleagues inside or outside your organization.

By using Prezent, you not only save valuable time and reduce communication costs but also ensure your soft skills presentation is 100% on-brand and approved by your corporate brand and marketing team, making it an invaluable tool for honing your professional skills.

Now, it's time to take the first step and start developing your soft skills presentation. Remember, you have the power to improve, and the journey begins with a single presentation.

Sign up for our free trial or book a demo today!

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11 Essential Soft Skills In 2024 (With Examples)

Updated: Apr 28, 2024, 8:35pm

Table of Contents

What are soft skills, 11 essential soft skills that employers value, frequently asked questions (faqs).

In today’s fast-paced world, success in the workplace requires more than just technical expertise and knowledge. As the nature of work continues to evolve, it is important for individuals to possess attributes and abilities that allow them to collaborate with teams and colleagues—otherwise known as soft skills.

From communication and collaboration to adaptability and problem-solving, soft skills are the foundation of effective teamwork and organizational success. In this article, we will explore 11 critical soft skills examples that are essential to workplace success and why they are becoming more important than ever before.

Soft skills—also known as “people skills” or “interpersonal skills”—are a set of personal attributes and abilities that allow individuals to effectively interact with others in a professional setting. At their core, these include the ability to collaborate effectively, manage time and communicate with clarity, among others.

Soft skills are difficult to measure or quantify; however, they are essential for success in a wide range of industries and professions. Whether you are working with colleagues from diverse cultural backgrounds or communicating with customers and clients around the world—the ability to navigate complex interpersonal dynamics and build strong relationships is the key to success.

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Here’s a look at the essential soft skills that companies value the most.

1. Communication

Effective communication is essential to build strong relationships with colleagues, clients and stakeholders. Not only does this involve the ability to convey messages in a clear and compelling way, but also the ability to understand the needs of others and respond to feedback. Employers want people who can build professional relationships with colleagues, which is especially important when working with teams.

Communication is often evaluated in the workplace through informal feedback, such as verbal or written comments from colleagues and supervisors. An alternative method is a formal evaluation or assessment. The ability to communicate effectively is often considered a critical component of professional success, and is highly valued by employers in a wide range of industries and professions.

Here are some examples of communication skills:

• Active listening
• Verbal communication
• Nonverbal communication
• Written communication
• Presentation skills

2. Leadership

A good leader has the ability to inspire their team to achieve greatness. They are able to set a clear vision, communicate it effectively and create a culture of accountability and excellence. More importantly, they’re able to inspire and influence team members to achieve shared goals and objectives.

The ability to lead effectively is often considered a critical component of professional success, and is highly valued by employers in a wide range of industries and professions. Because most employees work in teams, leadership is widely recognized as a critical attribute for success in the modern workplace.

Here are some examples of leadership skills:

• Problem-solving
• Coaching and mentoring
• Strategic thinking

3. Teamwork

Teamwork involves the ability to work with others toward a shared goal. It requires communication, collaboration and a shared commitment to work in a group. Individuals who are able to work collaboratively with others are more likely to achieve their professional goals, and to contribute to the success of their organizations.

In a professional setting, good teamwork can help to foster creativity and innovation because it encourages members to share ideas, brainstorm new solutions and collaborate on new initiatives. Working as part of a collaborative team can also enhance job satisfaction and contribute to a positive work environment.

Here are some examples of teamwork skills:

• Conflict resolution
• Accountability
• Collaboration

4. Creativity

Creativity involves the ability to think outside the box and come up with ideas that challenge assumptions. Needless to say, it requires a mindset of curiosity, risk-taking and a willingness to embrace ambiguity and uncertainty.

On another front, creativity is essential for effective problem-solving, meaning it allows individuals to tackle issues from new and different angles. Creative individuals also give organizations a competitive edge by enabling them to develop new products and systems that set them apart from their competition.

Here are some examples of creative skills:

• Brainstorming
• Imagination
• Experimentation

5. Time management

Time management involves the ability to set priorities, organize tasks and allot time across different activities. It requires discipline and a willingness to avoid distractions and low-priority tasks.

Naturally, good time management skills can help individuals avoid the stress and anxiety that can arise from missed deadlines. But more importantly, those who can manage their time effectively are more likely to be seen as reliable and efficient, which allows them to stand out in the workplace.

Here are some examples of time management skills:

• Goal-setting
• Time blocking

6. Adaptability

In today’s rapidly changing business landscape, adaptability is a key soft skill that enables individuals to stay ahead of the curve. An employee with this skill can adjust to changing circumstances, for example, and learn new skills and technologies to remain relevant in the workplace.

Because it’s impossible to avoid unexpected challenges, having adaptable employees allows organizations to bounce back from setbacks much faster. Plus, they can also read situations quickly and adjust their approach to adapt based on the situation.

Here are some examples of adaptability skills:

• Flexibility
• Growth mindset

7. Problem-solving

Problem-solving involves the ability to come up with alternative solutions. This skill is crucial to identifying and addressing complex challenges and opportunities in a variety of contexts.

Problem-solving also makes it easier to make more informed decisions because employees are able to analyze situations and identify the best course of action. As a result, teams are able to get more done in less time.

Here are some examples of problem-solving skills:

• Critical thinking

8. Work ethic

Work ethic demonstrates an individual’s commitment to their job. Having a strong work ethic makes you seem more reliable and dependable, which improves your credibility in the workplace.

There are a lot of ways to demonstrate a strong work ethic. Some examples include arriving on time for meetings, meeting deadlines consistently and being accountable for your actions. If you encounter any challenges in the workplace, you should also maintain a positive demeanor and adapt to changing situations.

Here are some examples of work ethic skills:

• Punctuality
• Reliability
• Professionalism

9. Critical thinking

Critical thinking enables individuals to approach problems and challenges with a strategic and analytical mindset. When making informed decisions, this skill allows you to weigh available options and consider potential outcomes.

A critical thinker can evaluate the strength of arguments and identify flaws in reasoning. They consider multiple perspectives, which makes them more likely to pinpoint the short-term and long-term consequences of their decisions. Additionally, they can also identify the root cause of a problem and generate multiple solutions.

Here are some examples of critical thinking skills:

• Deductive reasoning

10. Conflict management

Not every employee can get along with colleagues every time. As a team tackles obstacles, conflict and opposing ideas could arise every now and then.

Conflict management is the process of addressing disputes or disagreements in a constructive and effective manner. Often, this requires good communication skills, active listening, empathy, negotiation skills and a willingness to collaborate and find common ground.

When managing conflict, it is important to identify common goals and interests for all parties involved. This can help to establish a sense of unity and collaboration, and even lead to better outcomes for everyone involved. Being open to different ideas and perspectives can also make individuals feel motivated to work towards resolution.

Here are some examples of conflict management skills:

• Negotiation

11. Emotional intelligence

Emotional intelligence refers to the ability to recognize and understand one’s own emotions and those of others. In today’s collaborative work environments, this skill enables employees to navigate complex social dynamics and work effectively within teams. It also allows them to provide constructive feedback in a way that is sensitive to the emotions of others, leading to more successful outcomes and stronger relationships.

Effective leaders often have the ability to motivate others and navigate challenging situations with grace and empathy.

• Self-awareness
• Social skills

Bottom Line

In the modern workplace, employers seek candidates who possess technical expertise and soft skills that enable them to thrive in a collaborative work environment. Soft skills such as communication, teamwork, creativity, adaptability, problem-solving, work ethic, critical thinking and conflict management can be developed and honed over time. While it is important for individuals to continue to build their technical expertise, developing soft skills can ultimately set you apart in the workplace and lead to long-term success.

What are the 10 soft skills most desired in the industry?

The 10 most desired soft skills in the industry can vary depending on the specific job or industry. However, they generally include communication skills, teamwork, leadership, time management, adaptability, problem-solving, critical thinking, work ethic, creativity and emotional intelligence.

What is the most important soft skill?

Picking a single most important soft skill is difficult, because its importance can vary depending on the job or industry. However, most organizations consider communication skills as one of the most crucial skills essential for success in most workplaces and industries. Strong communication skills can improve relationships with colleagues, clients and customers, facilitate collaboration and teamwork, and enhance overall job performance.

What are employability soft skills?

Employability soft skills are a set of nontechnical skills that are highly valued by employers. Not only can they contribute to an individual’s workplace success, but they can also be applied in a variety of job roles. Some common examples of soft skills include communication, teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability and initiative.

What are some addition soft skills that can be useful in most workplace situations?

Besides the soft skills already covered, some addition soft skills that can be useful in most or all workplace situations include decision-making, stress management, resourcefulness, being persuasive, being open to criticism and being organized.

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Monique Danao is a highly experienced journalist, editor, and copywriter with an extensive background in B2B SaaS technology. Her work has been published in Forbes Advisor, Decential, Canva, 99Designs, Social Media Today and the South China Morning Post. She has also pursued a Master of Design Research at York University in Toronto, Canada.

Home Blog Education Presentation Skills 101: A Guide to Presentation Success

Presentation Skills 101: A Guide to Presentation Success

Getting the perfect presentation design is just a step toward a successful presentation. For the experienced user, building presentation skills is the answer to elevating the power of your message and showing expertise on any subject. Still, one can ask: is it the same set of skills, or are they dependable on the type of presentation?

In this article, we will introduce the different types of presentations accompanied by the skillset required to master them. The purpose, as always, is to retain the audience’s interest for a long-lasting and convincing message.

Table of Contents

The Importance of Presentation Skills

Persuasive presentations, instructional presentations, informative presentations, inspirational presentations, basic presentation skills, what are the main difficulties when giving a presentation, recommendations to improve your presentation skills, closing statement.

Effective communication is the answer to reaching business and academic goals. The scenarios in which we can be required to deliver a presentation are as diverse as one can imagine. Still, some core concepts apply to all presentations.

 We define presentation skills as a compendium of soft skills that directly affect your presentation performance and contribute to creating a great presentation. These are not qualities acquired by birth but skills you ought to train and master to delve into professional environments.

You may ask: is it really that evident when a presenter is not prepared? Here are some common signs people can experience during presentations:

• Evasive body language: Not making eye contact with the audience, arms closed tightly to the body, hands in pockets all the time.
• Lack of interest in the presenter’s voice: dull tone, not putting an effort to articulate the topics.
• Doubting when asked to answer a question
• Irksome mood

The list can go on about common presenter mistakes , and most certainly, it will affect the performance of any presented data if the lack of interest by the presenter is blatantly obvious.  Another element to consider is anxiety, and according to research by the National Institute of Mental Health, 73% of the population in the USA is affected by glossophobia , which is the fear of public speaking, judgment, or negative evaluation by other people.

Therefore, presentation skills training is essential for any business professional who wants to achieve effective communication . It will remove the anxiety from presentation performance and help users effectively deliver their message and connect with the audience.

Archetypes of presentations

Persuasive presentations aim to convince the audience – often in short periods – to acquire a product or service, adhere to a cause, or invest in a company. For business entrepreneurs or politicians, persuasive presentations are their tool for the trade.

Unless you aim to be perceived as an imposter, a proper persuasive presentation has the elements of facts, empathy, and logic, balanced under a well-crafted narrative. The central pillar of these presentations is to identify the single factor that gathered your audience: it could be a market need, a social cause, or a revolutionary concept for today’s society. It has to be something with enough power to gather critiques – both good and bad.

That single factor has to be backed up by facts. Research that builds your hypothesis on how to solve that problem. A deep understanding of the target audience’s needs , concerns, and social position regarding the solution your means can offer. When those elements are in place, building a pitch becomes an easy task. 

Graphics can help you introduce information in a compelling format, lowering the need for lengthy presentations. Good presentation skills for persuasive presentations go by the hand of filtering relevant data and creating the visual cues that resonate with what your audience demands.

One powerful example of a persuasive presentation is the technique known as the elevator pitch . You must introduce your idea or product convincingly to the audience in a timeframe between 30 seconds and less than 2 minutes. You have to expose:

• What do you do 
• What’s the problem to solve
• Why is your solution different from others 
• Why should the audience care about your expertise

For that very purpose, using engaging graphics with contrasting colors elevates the potential power of your message. It speaks professionalism, care for details, and out-of-the-box thinking. Knowing how to end a presentation is also critical, as your CTAs should be placed with care.

Therefore, let’s resume the requirements of persuasive presentations in terms of good presentation skills:

• Identifying problems and needs
• Elaborating “the hook” (the element that grabs the audience’s attention)
• Knowing how to “tie” your audience (introducing a piece of information related to the hook that causes an emotional impact)
• Broad knowledge of body language and hand gestures to quickly convey your message
• Being prepared to argue a defense of your point of view
• Handling rejection
• Having a proactive attitude to convert opportunities into new projects
• Using humor, surprise, or personal anecdotes as elements to sympathize with the audience
• Having confidence
• Be able to summarize facts and information in visually appealing ways

You can learn more about persuasive presentation techniques by clicking here .

In the case of instructional presentations, we ought to differentiate two distinctive types:

• Lecture Presentations : Presentations being held at universities or any other educative institution. Those presentations cover, topic by topic, and the contents of a syllabus and are created by the team of teachers in charge of the course.
• Training Presentations : These presentations take place during in-company training sessions and usually comprise a good amount of content that is resumed into easy-to-take solutions. They are aimed to coach employees over certain topics relevant to their work performance. The 70-20-10 Model is frequently used to address these training situations.

Lecture presentations appeal to the gradual introduction of complex concepts, following a structure set in the course’s syllabus. These presentations often have a similar aesthetic as a group of professors or researchers created to share their knowledge about a topic. Personal experience does tell that course presentations often rely on factual data, adequately documented, and on the theoretical side.

An example of a presentation that lies under this concept is a Syllabus Presentation, used by the teaching team to introduce the subject to new students, evaluation methods, concepts to be learned, and expectations to pass the course.

On the other hand, training presentations are slide decks designed to meet an organization’s specific needs in the formal education of their personnel. Commonly known as “continuous education,” plenty of companies invest resources in coaching their employees to achieve higher performance results. These presentations have the trademark of being concise since their idea is to introduce the concepts that shall be applied in practice sessions. 

Ideally, the training presentations are introduced with little text and easy-to-recognize visual cues. Since the idea is to summarize as much as possible, these are visually appealing for the audience. They must be dynamic enough to allow the presenter to convey the message.

Those key takeaways remind employees when they revisit their learning resources and allow them to ruminate on questions that fellow workers raise. 

To sum up this point, building presentation skills for instructional presentations requires:

• Ability to put complex concepts into simpler words
• Patience and a constant learning mindset
• Voice training to deliver lengthy speeches without being too dense
• Ability to summarize points and note the key takeaways
• Empathizing with the audience to understand their challenges in the learning process

The informative presentations take place in business situations, such as when to present project reports from different departments to the management. Another potential usage of these presentations is in SCRUM or other Agile methodologies, when a sprint is completed, to discuss the advance of the project with the Product Owner.

As they are presentations heavily dependent on data insights, it’s common to see the usage of infographics and charts to express usually dense data in simpler terms and easy to remember. 

Informative presentations don’t just fall into the business category. Ph.D. Dissertation and Thesis presentations are topics that belong to the informative presentations category as they condense countless research hours into manageable reports for the academic jury. 

Since these informational presentations can be perceived as lengthy and data-filled, it is important to learn the following professional presentation skills:

• Attention to detail
• Be able to explain complex information in simpler terms
• Creative thinking
• Powerful diction
• Working on pauses and transitions
• Pacing the presentation, so not too much information is divulged per slide

The leading inspirational platform, TEDx, comes to mind when talking about inspirational presentations. This presentation format has the peculiarity of maximizing the engagement with the audience to divulge a message, and due to that, it has specific requirements any presenter must meet.

This presentation format usually involves a speaker on a stage, either sitting or better standing, in which the presenter engages with the audience with a storytelling format about a life experience, a job done that provided a remarkable improvement for society, etc.

Empathizing with the audience is the key ingredient for these inspirational presentations. Still, creativity is what shapes the outcome of your performance as people are constantly looking for different experiences – not the same recipe rephrased with personal touches. The human factor is what matters here, way above data and research. What has your experience to offer to others? How can it motivate another human being to pursue a similar path or discover their true calling?

To achieve success in terms of communication skills presentation, these inspirational presentations have the following requirements:

• Focus on the audience (engage, consider their interests, and make them a part of your story)
• Putting ego aside
• Creative communication skills
• Storytelling skills
• Body language knowledge to apply the correct gestures to accompany your story
• Voice training
• Using powerful words

After discussing the different kinds of presentations we can come across at any stage of our lives, a group of presentation skills is standard in any type of presentation. See below what makes a good presentation and which skills you must count on to succeed as a presenter.

Punctuality

Punctuality is a crucial aspect of giving an effective presentation. Nothing says more about respect for your audience and the organization you represent than delivering the presentation on time . Arriving last minute puts pressure on the tech team behind audiovisuals, as they don’t have enough preparation to test microphones, stage lights, and projector settings, which can lead to a less powerful presentation Even when discussing presentations hosted in small rooms for a reduced audience, testing the equipment becomes essential for an effective presentation.

A solution for this is to arrive at least 30 minutes early. Ideally, one hour is a sweet spot since the AV crew has time to check the gear and requirements for your presentation. Another benefit of this, for example, in inspirational presentations, is measuring the previous presenter’s impact on the audience. This gives insights about how to resonate with the public, and their interest, and how to accommodate your presentation for maximum impact.

Body Language

Our bodies can make emotions transparent for others, even when we are unaware of such a fact. Proper training for body language skills reduces performance anxiety, giving the audience a sense of expertise about the presented topic. 

Give your presentation and the audience the respect they deserve by watching over these potential mistakes:

• Turning your back to the audience for extended periods : It’s okay to do so when introducing an important piece of information or explaining a graph, but it is considered rude to give your back to the audience constantly.
• Fidgeting : We are all nervous in the presence of strangers, even more, if we are the center of attention for that moment. Instead of playing with your hair or making weird hand gestures, take a deep breath to center yourself before the presentation and remember that everything you could do to prepare is already done. Trust your instincts and give your best.
• Intense eye contact : Have you watched a video where the presenter stared at the camera the entire time? That’s the feeling you transmit to spectators through intense eye contact. It’s a practice often used by politicians to persuade.
• Swearing : This is a no-brainer. Even when you see influencers swearing on camera or in podcasts or live presentations, it is considered an informal and lousy practice for business and academic situations. If you have a habit to break when it comes to this point, find the humor in these situations and replace your swear words with funny alternatives (if the presentation allows for it). 

Voice Tone plays a crucial role in delivering effective presentations and knowing how to give a good presentation. Your voice is a powerful tool for exposing your ideas and feelings . Your voice can articulate the message you are telling, briefing the audience if you feel excited about what you are sharing or, in contrast, if you feel the presentation is a burden you ought to complete.

Remember, passion is a primary ingredient in convincing people. Therefore, transmitting such passion with a vibrant voice may help gather potential business partners’ interest.  

But what if you feel sick prior to the presentation? If, by chance, your throat is sore minutes before setting foot on the stage, try this: when introducing yourself, mention that you are feeling a bit under the weather. This resonates with the audience to pay more attention to your efforts. In case you don’t feel comfortable about that, ask the organizers for a cup of tea, as it will settle your throat and relax your nerves.

Tech Skills

Believe it or not, people still feel challenged by technology these days. Maybe that’s the reason why presentation giants like Tony Robbins opt not to use PowerPoint presentations . The reality is that there are plenty of elements involved in a presentation that can go wrong from the tech side:

• A PDF not opening
• Saving your presentation in a too-recent PowerPoint version
• A computer not booting up
• Mac laptops and their never-ending compatibility nightmare
• Not knowing how to change between slides
• Not knowing how to use a laser pointer
• Internet not working
• Audio not working

We can come up with a pretty long list of potential tech pitfalls, and yet more than half of them fall in presenters not being knowledgeable about technology.

If computers aren’t your thing, let the organization know about this beforehand. There is always a crew member available to help presenters switch between slides or configure the presentation for streaming. This takes the pressure off your shoulders, allowing you to concentrate on the content to present. Remember, even Bill Gates can get a BSOD during a presentation .

Presentations, while valuable for conveying information and ideas, can be daunting for many individuals. Here are some common difficulties people encounter when giving presentations:

Public Speaking Anxiety

Glossophobia, the fear of public speaking, affects a significant portion of the population. This anxiety can lead to nervousness, trembling, and forgetfulness during a presentation.

Lack of Confidence

Many presenters struggle with self-doubt, fearing that they may not be knowledgeable or skilled enough to engage their audience effectively.

Content Organization

Organizing information in a coherent and engaging manner can be challenging. Presenters often grapple with how to structure their content to make it easily digestible for the audience. Artificial Intelligence can help us significantly reduce the content arrangement time when you work with tools like our AI Presentation Maker (made for presenters by experts in presentation design). 

Audience Engagement

Keeping the audience’s attention and interest throughout the presentation can be difficult. Distractions, disengaged attendees, or lack of interaction can pose challenges.

Technical Issues

Technology glitches, such as malfunctioning equipment, incompatible file formats, or poor internet connectivity, can disrupt presentations and increase stress.

Time Management

Striking the right balance between providing enough information and staying within time limits is a common challenge. Going over or under the allotted time can affect the effectiveness of the presentation.

Handling Questions and Challenges

Responding to unexpected questions, criticism, or challenges from the audience can be difficult, especially when presenters are unprepared or lack confidence in their subject matter.

Visual Aids and Technology

Creating and effectively using visual aids like slides or multimedia can be a struggle for some presenters. Technical competence is essential in this aspect.

Language and Articulation

Poor language skills or unclear articulation can hinder effective communication. Presenters may worry about stumbling over words or failing to convey their message clearly.

Maintaining appropriate and confident body language can be challenging. Avoiding nervous habits, maintaining eye contact, and using gestures effectively requires practice.

Overcoming Impersonal Delivery

In virtual presentations, maintaining a personal connection with the audience can be difficult. The absence of face-to-face interaction can make it challenging to engage and read the audience.

Cultural and Diversity Awareness

Presenting to diverse audiences requires sensitivity to cultural differences and varying levels of familiarity with the topic.

In this section, we gathered some tips on how to improve presentation skills that can certainly make an impact if applied to your presentation skills. We believe these skills can be cultivated to transform into habits for your work routine.

Tip #1: Build a narrative

One memorable way to guarantee presentation success is by writing a story of all the points you desire to cover. This statement is based on the logic behind storytelling and its power to connect with people .

Don’t waste time memorizing slides or reading your presentation to the audience. It feels unnatural, and any question that diverts from the topic in discussion certainly puts you in jeopardy or, worse, exposes you as a fraud in the eyes of the audience. And before you ask, it is really evident when a presenter has a memorized speech. 

Build and rehearse the presentation as if telling a story to a group of interested people. Lower the language barrier by avoiding complex terms that maybe even you aren’t fully aware of their meaning. Consider the ramifications of that story, what it could lead to, and which are the opportunities to explore. Then, visualize yourself giving the presentation in a natural way.

Applying this technique makes the presentation feel like second nature to you. It broadens the spectrum in which you can show expertise over a topic or even build the basis for new interesting points of view about the project.

Tip #2: Don’t talk for more than 3 minutes per slide

It is a common practice of presenters to bombard the audience with facts and information whilst retaining the same slide on the screen. Why can this happen? It could be because the presenter condensed the talk into very few slides and preferred to talk. The reality is that your spectators won’t retain the information you are giving unless you give visual cues to help that process. 

Opt to prepare more slides and pace your speech to match the topics shown on each slide. Don’t spend more than 3 minutes per slide unless you have to introduce a complex piece of data. Use visual cues to direct the spectators about what you talk about, and summarize the principal concepts discussed at the end of each section.

Tip #3: Practice meditation daily

Anxiety is the number one enemy of professional presenters. It slowly builds without you being aware of your doubts and can hinder your performance in multiple ways: making you feel paralyzed, fidgeting, making you forget language skills or concepts, affecting your health, etc.

Meditation is an ancient practice taken from Buddhist teachings that train your mind to be here in the present. We often see the concepts of meditation and mindfulness as synonyms, whereas you should be aware that meditation is a practice that sets the blocks to reach a state of mindfulness. For presenters, being in the here and now is essential to retain focus, but meditation techniques also teach us to control our breathing and be in touch with our body signals when stress builds up. 

The customary practice of meditation has an impact on imagination and creativity but also helps to build patience – a skill much needed for connecting with your audience in instructional presentations.

Having the proper set of presentation skills can be quite subjective. It goes beyond presentation tips and deepens into how flexible we can be in our ability to communicate ideas.

Different presentations and different audiences shape the outcome of our efforts. Therefore, having a basic understanding of how to connect, raise awareness, and empathize with people can be key ingredients for your career as a presenter. A word of advice: success doesn’t happen overnight. It takes dedication and patience to build communication skills . Don’t condition your work to believe you will be ready “someday”; it’s best to practice and experience failure as part of the learning process.

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Business Presentations, Presentation Approaches, Presentation Skills Filed under Education

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6 presentation skills and how to improve them

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What are presentation skills?

The importance of presentation skills, 6 presentation skills examples, how to improve presentation skills.

Tips for dealing with presentation anxiety

Learn how to captivate an audience with ease

Capturing an audience’s attention takes practice. 

Over time, great presenters learn how to organize their speeches and captivate an audience from start to finish. They spark curiosity, know how to read a room , and understand what their audience needs to walk away feeling like they learned something valuable.

Regardless of your profession, you most likely use presentation skills on a monthly or even weekly basis. Maybe you lead brainstorming sessions or host client calls. 

Developing effective presentation skills makes it easier to contribute ideas with confidence and show others you’re someone to trust. Although speaking in front of a crowd sometimes brings nerves and anxiety , it also sparks new opportunities.

Presentation skills are the qualities and abilities you need to communicate ideas effectively and deliver a compelling speech. They influence how you structure a presentation and how an audience receives it. Understanding body language , creating impactful visual aids, and projecting your voice all fall under this umbrella.

A great presentation depends on more than what you say. It’s about how you say it. Storytelling , stage presence, and voice projection all shape how well you express your ideas and connect with the audience. These skills do take practice, but they’re worth developing — especially if public speaking makes you nervous. 

Engaging a crowd isn’t easy. You may feel anxious to step in front of an audience and have all eyes and ears on you.

But feeling that anxiety doesn’t mean your ideas aren’t worth sharing. Whether you’re giving an inspiring speech or delivering a monthly recap at work, your audience is there to listen to you. Harness that nervous energy and turn it into progress.

Strong presentation skills make it easier to convey your thoughts to audiences of all sizes. They can help you tell a compelling story, convince people of a pitch , or teach a group something entirely new to them. And when it comes to the workplace, the strength of your presentation skills could play a part in getting a promotion or contributing to a new initiative.

To fully understand the impact these skills have on creating a successful presentation, it’s helpful to look at each one individually. Here are six valuable skills you can develop:

1. Active listening

Active listening is an excellent communication skill for any professional to hone. When you have strong active listening skills, you can listen to others effectively and observe their nonverbal cues . This helps you assess whether or not your audience members are engaged in and understand what you’re sharing. 

Great public speakers use active listening to assess the audience’s reactions and adjust their speech if they find it lacks impact. Signs like slouching, negative facial expressions, and roaming eye contact are all signs to watch out for when giving a presentation.

2. Body language

If you’re researching presentation skills, chances are you’ve already watched a few notable speeches like TED Talks or industry seminars. And one thing you probably noticed is that speakers can capture attention with their body language. 

A mixture of eye contact, hand gestures , and purposeful pacing makes a presentation more interesting and engaging. If you stand in one spot and don’t move your body, the audience might zone out.

3. Stage presence

A great stage presence looks different for everyone. A comedian might aim for more movement and excitement, and a conference speaker might focus their energy on the content of their speech. Although neither is better than the other, both understand their strengths and their audience’s needs. 

Developing a stage presence involves finding your own unique communication style . Lean into your strengths, whether that’s adding an injection of humor or asking questions to make it interactive . To give a great presentation, you might even incorporate relevant props or presentation slides.

4. Storytelling

According to Forbes, audiences typically pay attention for about 10 minutes before tuning out . But you can lengthen their attention span by offering a presentation that interests them for longer. Include a narrative they’ll want to listen to, and tell a story as you go along. 

Shaping your content to follow a clear narrative can spark your audience’s curiosity and entice them to pay careful attention. You can use anecdotes from your personal or professional life that take your audience along through relevant moments. If you’re pitching a product, you can start with a problem and lead your audience through the stages of how your product provides a solution.

5. Voice projection

Although this skill may be obvious, you need your audience to hear what you’re saying. This can be challenging if you’re naturally soft-spoken and struggle to project your voice.

Remember to straighten your posture and take deep breaths before speaking, which will help you speak louder and fill the room. If you’re talking into a microphone or participating in a virtual meeting, you can use your regular conversational voice, but you still want to sound confident and self-assured with a strong tone.

If you’re unsure whether everyone can hear you, you can always ask the audience at the beginning of your speech and wait for confirmation. That way, they won’t have to potentially interrupt you later.

Ensuring everyone can hear you also includes your speed and annunciation. It’s easy to speak quickly when nervous, but try to slow down and pronounce every word. Mumbling can make your presentation difficult to understand and pay attention to.

6. Verbal communication 

Although verbal communication involves your projection and tone, it also covers the language and pacing you use to get your point across. This includes where you choose to place pauses in your speech or the tone you use to emphasize important ideas.

If you’re giving a presentation on collaboration in the workplace , you might start your speech by saying, “There’s something every workplace needs to succeed: teamwork.” By placing emphasis on the word “ teamwork ,” you give your audience a hint on what ideas will follow.

To further connect with your audience through diction, pay careful attention to who you’re speaking to. The way you talk to your colleagues might be different from how you speak to a group of superiors, even if you’re discussing the same subject. You might use more humor and a conversational tone for the former and more serious, formal diction for the latter.

Everyone has strengths and weaknesses when it comes to presenting. Maybe you’re confident in your use of body language, but your voice projection needs work. Maybe you’re a great storyteller in small group settings, but need to work on your stage presence in front of larger crowds. 

The first step to improving presentation skills is pinpointing your gaps and determining which qualities to build upon first. Here are four tips for enhancing your presentation skills:

1. Build self-confidence

Confident people know how to speak with authority and share their ideas. Although feeling good about your presentation skills is easier said than done, building confidence is key to helping your audience believe in what you’re saying. Try practicing positive self-talk and continuously researching your topic's ins and outs.

If you don’t feel confident on the inside, fake it until you make it. Stand up straight, project your voice, and try your best to appear engaged and excited. Chances are, the audience doesn’t know you’re unsure of your skills — and they don’t need to.

Another tip is to lean into your slideshow, if you’re using one. Create something colorful and interesting so the audience’s eyes fall there instead of on you. And when you feel proud of your slideshow, you’ll be more eager to share it with others, bringing more energy to your presentation.

2. Watch other presentations

Developing the soft skills necessary for a good presentation can be challenging without seeing them in action. Watch as many as possible to become more familiar with public speaking skills and what makes a great presentation. You could attend events with keynote speakers or view past speeches on similar topics online.

Take a close look at how those presenters use verbal communication and body language to engage their audiences. Grab a notebook and jot down what you enjoyed and your main takeaways. Try to recall the techniques they used to emphasize their main points, whether they used pauses effectively, had interesting visual aids, or told a fascinating story.

3. Get in front of a crowd

You don’t need a large auditorium to practice public speaking. There are dozens of other ways to feel confident and develop good presentation skills.

If you’re a natural comedian, consider joining a small stand-up comedy club. If you’re an avid writer, participate in a public poetry reading. Even music and acting can help you feel more comfortable in front of a crowd.

If you’d rather keep it professional, you can still work on your presentation skills in the office. Challenge yourself to participate at least once in every team meeting, or plan and present a project to become more comfortable vocalizing your ideas. You could also speak to your manager about opportunities that flex your public speaking abilities.

4. Overcome fear

Many people experience feelings of fear before presenting in front of an audience, whether those feelings appear as a few butterflies or more severe anxiety. Try grounding yourself to shift your focus to the present moment. If you’re stuck dwelling on previous experiences that didn’t go well, use those mistakes as learning experiences and focus on what you can improve to do better in the future.

Tips for dealing with presentation anxiety 

It’s normal to feel nervous when sharing your ideas. In fact, according to a report from the Journal of Graduate Medical Education, public speaking anxiety is prevalent in 15–30% of the general population .

Even though having a fear of public speaking is common, it doesn’t make it easier. You might feel overwhelmed, become stiff, and forget what you were going to say. But although the moment might scare you, there are ways to overcome the fear and put mind over matter.

Use these tactics to reduce your stress when you have to make a presentation:

1. Practice breathing techniques

If you experience anxiety often, you’re probably familiar with breathing techniques for stress relief . Incorporating these exercises into your daily routine can help you stop worrying and regulate anxious feelings. 

Before a big presentation, take a moment alone to practice breathing techniques, ground yourself, and reduce tension. It’s also a good idea to take breaths throughout the presentation to speak slower and calm yourself down .

2. Get organized

The more organized you are, the more prepared you’ll feel. Carefully outline all of the critical information you want to use in your presentation, including your main talking points and visual aids, so you don’t forget anything. Use bullet points and visuals on each slide to remind you of what you want to talk about, and create handheld notes to help you stay on track.

3. Embrace moments of silence

It’s okay to lose your train of thought. It happens to even the most experienced public speakers once in a while. If your mind goes blank, don’t panic. Take a moment to breathe, gather your thoughts, and refer to your notes to see where you left off. You can drink some water or make a quick joke to ease the silence or regain your footing. And it’s okay to say, “Give me a moment while I find my notes.” Chances are, people understand the position you’re in.

4. Practice makes progress

Before presenting, rehearse in front of friends and family members you trust. This gives you the chance to work out any weak spots in your speech and become comfortable communicating out loud. If you want to go the extra mile, ask your makeshift audience to ask a surprise question. This tests your on-the-spot thinking and will prove that you can keep cool when things come up.

Whether you’re new to public speaking or are a seasoned presenter, you’re bound to make a few slip-ups. It happens to everyone. The most important thing is that you try your best, brush things off, and work on improving your skills to do better in your next presentation.

Although your job may require a different level of public speaking than your favorite TED Talk , developing presentation skills is handy in any profession. You can use presentation skills in a wide range of tasks in the workplace, whether you’re sharing your ideas with colleagues, expressing concerns to higher-ups, or pitching strategies to potential clients.

Remember to use active listening to read the room and engage your audience with an interesting narrative. Don’t forget to step outside your comfort zone once in a while and put your skills to practice in front of a crowd. After facing your fears, you’ll feel confident enough to put presentation skills on your resume.

If you’re trying to build your skills and become a better employee overall, try a communications coach with BetterUp. 

Elevate your communication skills

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Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

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5 Essential Soft Skills to Develop in Any Job

• Marlo Lyons

You don’t have to be in your dream job to advance your career.

If you’ve been laid off, you might find yourself working in a job outside your industry — for example, in transportation, health care, social assistance, accommodation, food service, etc. — to support yourself and your family. Even if that job’s responsibilities seem far afield from your chosen career path, this is an opportunity to develop or elevate skills that are needed in any industry. The author discusses five soft skills to focus on during your time outside your chosen field — teamwork, influencing without authority, effective communication, problem solving, and leadership — and how to position them on your resume.

Being laid off is a shock — even if you see it coming. If you’re eligible for severance pay, you might feel okay for a while, but there may come a point when you need to take a job outside of your profession to pay the bills (maybe in retail, food service, or hospitality). But landing a job outside of your industry can still move your career forward.

• Marlo Lyons is a career, executive, and team coach, as well as the award-winning author of Wanted – A New Career: The Definitive Playbook for Transitioning to a New Career or Finding Your Dream Job . You can reach her at marlolyonscoaching.com .

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The Ultimate Guide to Soft Skills in the Workplace and Your Job Search

Think about your favorite and most admired coworkers, managers, and leaders. Why did you choose these people? Was it because they were great at doing data analysis? Maybe, but it’s more likely you enjoyed interacting with this person and appreciated how they did their jobs.

Was that one colleague always so excited to dive into a new project that they motivated others on the team? Did they always speak up at meetings to point out when someone else was being spoken over? Was that favorite boss always understanding of people’s lives outside of work? All of these speak to a person’s soft skills, and they’re vital to anybody’s career success.

In fact, they’re often just as important as hard skills when it comes to your job search—and overall career success.

What are soft skills?

What are the most in-demand soft skills employers are looking for in 2023, 50+ top soft skill examples, how can you highlight your soft skills in a job search, faqs about soft skills.

“Soft skills are intangible attributes related to how you work,” says Muse career coach Jennifer Smith , founder of Flourish Careers . They’re the traits and qualities you possess that dictate how you’ll engage with others—also known as interpersonal skills —and how you’ll perform in the workplace. 

You may be more familiar with hard skills , which are often based on specific knowledge like how to do a certain task or use a specific piece of technology, but “soft skills focus more on your actual behaviors or habits in work situations,” says Muse career coach Al Dea . 

For example, are you always coming up with outside-the-box solutions and proposals? Can you give a presentation that makes everyone in the room sit up and pay attention? Do you always step in to help when someone on your team needs it? These are demonstrations of your soft skills—creativity, public speaking, and teamwork, respectively.

Soft skills are:

• More subjective than hard skills : Saying that you know how to prepare someone’s taxes or upload content using WordPress is fairly straightforward. Did the taxes get filed correctly? Is the content uploaded? Then you have those skills. But saying that you’re a good leader isn’t as clear-cut.
• More timeless than hard skills: “Many soft skills will continue to be needed for the foreseeable future even as the industry and market evolve,” Dea says. A lot of common tech tools, like those we use for social media or search engine optimization, didn’t even exist until recently—and neither did the hard skills that go with them, Dea says. And technologies will continue to evolve, meaning that the hard skills you need now might not be as important in five or 10 years. But working hard and being dependable are unlikely to ever go out of style.
• More transferable than hard skills: When you’re just starting out in your career or if you’re going through a career pivot—no matter how large—you may not be able to use all of the hard skills you honed in the past, but soft skills like communication and creativity can serve you in most jobs.

In May 2022, ZipRecruiter analyzed job listings across their site for the soft skills that appeared most often throughout 2021. According to that analysis, the soft skills that were most in demand are:

Communication skills

• Customer service
• Time management skills
• Project management
• Analytical thinking
• Ability to work independently
• Interpersonal skills
• Flexibility

Problem-solving skills

• Attention to detail
• Collaboration
• Multitasking

Since every employer is going to write job descriptions and identify soft skills a bit differently, some of these skills overlap, but this list can still give you an idea of the soft skills employers want most right now.

Also note that while ZipRecruiter listed “compliance” as a soft skill, it’s more often a job function or a hard skill that means following (a.k.a. complying with) industry or legal standards. For example, an HR manager could be responsible for ensuring a company is in compliance with the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) when accommodating employees. If a job posting asks for “compliance” as a soft skill, that could be a red flag .

Here are some of the most important types of soft skills and some examples of the individual skills that fall under each category. This list isn’t exhaustive, but you can use it to start thinking about which soft skills you have and which you’d like to develop further.

“Every job involves some types of communication,” Dea says. Having the ability to communicate effectively is vital for any role and can affect a number of experiences in the workplace—from how well you convey your expectations and how well you understand others’ expectations to whether or not you land that big account. Strong communication skills will mean fewer misunderstandings, clearer indications of progress toward goals, and better relationships with coworkers, among other benefits.

• Active listening
• Giving clear feedback
• Negotiation
• Nonverbal communication
• Public speaking
• Verbal communication
• Written communication

Leadership skills

Don’t skip this section just because you aren’t a manager or senior-level employee. “You don’t need to be a leader to demonstrate leadership!” Dea says. Employees at any level can still demonstrate their leadership skills on projects and within their teams.

• Conflict management/resolution
• Decision-making
• Giving and accepting feedback
• Motivating others
• Relationship building

A big part of any job is solving problems, and not every problem has a clear-cut answer, Dea says. The ability to figure out how to approach new or particularly difficult problems is a key soft skill.

• Critical thinking
• Open-mindedness
• Innovativeness
• Proactivity
• Resourcefulness
• Risk management
• Troubleshooting

Collaboration and teamwork skills

You need to know how to work with others toward a shared goal or objective. This can be as small as making sure a presentation gets done for a team meeting or as big as helping your company hit its goals for the quarter or year. These skills speak to your ability to effectively work as part of a team.

• Dependability/reliability
• Emotional intelligence
• Disability awareness
• Diversity awareness
• Self-awareness
• Trust and trustworthiness

Work ethic and work style skills

These soft skills relate to your particular approach to work. You’ll see that some of these traits and abilities are opposites of each other. That’s because there’s no one correct work style, and some work habits and personal qualities are better suited to different companies and work environments.

• Ability to work well under pressure
• Adaptability/flexibility
• Attention to detail/conscientiousness
• Awareness of the big picture
• Creative thinking
• Fast learner
• Independence
• Organization
• Perseverance
• Prioritization
• Self-motivation
• Time management

First, you need to know what soft skills to highlight. When you’re looking at a job posting, you might see phrases like “strong communication skills” or “team player” or “skilled multitasker.” Do your eyes just jump over these? Or do you note them the same way you would qualifications such as “must have three years of experience as a Salesforce administrator” or “must be proficient in JavaScript”?

Well, you should be paying attention, because these are soft skills that are crucial to the role you're applying for. So always review the job description, Smith says. Companies aren’t asking for a self-starter with great attention to detail for no reason. You can also “take a look at LinkedIn profiles for people who work at the company and see what skills they have,” Smith says. Or you can talk to people who already work in a position or at a company you’re interested in and ask them which soft skills are most vital to success.

How to highlight soft skills on your resume

While many job seekers think of their resume as the prime space to show off their hard skills , you should also make sure your soft skills shine. You might include your most important soft skills in a resume summary . You might even list the soft skills mentioned in or directly related to the job description in your skills section , Smith says, though Dea suggests only going this route if you have extra space.

But remember that anyone can say that they have strong leadership skills or problem-solving abilities. You have to show prospective employers how you’ve used your soft skills and what you’ve achieved. This means working your soft skills into your bullet points. For example, if you wanted to talk about your leadership skills, Smith suggests something like:

• Assumed leadership role for sales team with the lowest worker satisfaction survey results in the company. Motivated and engaged employees by encouraging feedback, holding a variety of team-building events, and celebrating top performers at weekly meetings, increasing positive sentiment by 34% in one year.

Or you can combine your soft and hard skills into one bullet point. For example:

• Collaborated with a team of 3 to conduct market research through one-on-one meetings with customers about their needs and concerns. Wrote clear and concise questions used by entire team and assigned tasks and tracked progress in Asana. Presented findings visualized with Tableau and made recommendations to senior staff.

For each of your resume bullets (which should be quantified and achievement-oriented ) think, “Which of my soft skills helped me to accomplish this?” You might also choose action verbs (collaborated, led, presented, motivated) that speak to the appropriate soft skills, as in the examples above.

Read More: The Right Way to Add Skills to Your Resume in 2023 (With 250+ Example Skills)

How to highlight soft skills in your cover letter

Cover letters are a great place to expand on your soft skills. Tell a story that explicitly mentions your experience with the soft skills in the job description to highlight your fit for the role, Smith says. So if a job description calls for someone with “excellent organizational skills” and you wanted to emphasize yours, you could say:

“When I started my current job as office manager for BubbleTech, supplies were stashed wherever there was room—I found Post-its in the kitchen and snacks in a cabinet over the printer! So I put my organizational skills to work, inventorying and rearranging all the supplies. I also sent around a Google Sheet that told everyone where they could find each item. In addition to checking the inventory weekly, I made sure my colleagues could note on that same Google Sheet when something was running low and I’d know to order more. As a result, BubbleTech stopped wasting money on extra supplies and never again found themselves completely out of any item when it was needed.”

How to highlight soft skills in a job interview

You can and should mention examples of how you’ve used your soft skills in your answers to interview questions . Think about which of your soft skills you want to emphasize before your interview, and come prepared with stories that show those skills in action. You can structure your answers using the STAR method to ensure that you include not only how you used your skills, but also what results they got.

How to highlight your soft skills throughout the hiring process

Your behavior before, during, and after each step of the application process will also show employers some of your soft skills firsthand, Smith says. For example, every email you send and each phone call, video meeting, and in-person interaction you have with someone at a company you’re interviewing with says something about your communication skills, Dea says. 

Arriving on time for an interview is a given, but speaks to your dependability and time management skills. Being prepared with strong, inquisitive questions about the role will show the hiring manager how curious and proactive you are, and asking your interviewer questions about themselves and responding earnestly to their answers will show your empathy and active listening skills

Why are soft skills important?

“The way you get work done and interact with others is a critical component within the workplace,” Smith says, so soft skills are crucial to your success and reputation, no matter what your role or seniority level.

Think about a company you were part of or a team you were on that really got things done in a way that felt rewarding. Why was that? Sure, the individuals on the team probably had the hard skills to complete their work tasks, but that’s just the “what.” The “how” comes from soft skills. Maybe innovation and creativity flourished. Maybe communication was very open and direct without ever being harsh. Maybe the environment was very collaborative and individuals were never blamed for failures. Maybe the team had a great rapport. Soft skills make these things possible.

How can you improve your soft skills?

Because they’re not based on specific knowledge like hard skills, soft skills are often considered more difficult to learn or strengthen. And there’s a bit of truth to that, but that doesn’t mean you can’t develop your soft skills. Follow these steps:

• Establish where your soft skills stand now . Our experts suggest looking at past feedback from performance reviews and other sources and/or asking for current feedback; looking at your past and current work responsibilities and identifying which soft skills have helped you succeed in your job and which ones could have helped; or taking a skills assessment or quiz (like this , this , and this ).
• I dentify one or two areas you want to focus on first. Think about any areas where you’re often running into problems at work or repeatedly getting feedback on. These are probably the soft skills you want to start with. For example, do you always find yourself needing to re-explain what you wrote in an email? Maybe look into improving your writing skills .
• Practice. Smith recommends putting yourself in situations where you’ll have to stretch your soft skills, but start small. For example, do you struggle with public speaking ? Maybe you can give a short presentation to your immediate team at an upcoming meeting. Are your leadership skills lacking? Volunteer to run point on a simple project. And whenever possible during your practice, ask for feedback.
• Consider taking a class. While online classes for soft skills are less common than classes on how to use a flashy new program, you can still find courses online that will help you with your interpersonal and other skills.
• Ask your network for help. “Find a mentor who is good at what you’re trying to improve and ask them to coach you,” Smith suggests. Or if you have a coworker who’s great at the soft skill you’re trying to work on, you might observe and evaluate what they do and think about how you can apply these strategies yourself, Dea says.

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Soft Skills Development Workshop

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Soft skills are some of the most important but often overlooked aspects of any job. They come in all kinds of shapes and sizes—the ability to stay organized, the knack for connecting with people, and the capability to multitask efficiently. Some skills are "picked up" as you go, and others can actually be worked on. And that's where you come into play, as the organizer of a workshop! Get this creative template and use it for your lessons. The design itself conveys creativity, so let yourself be inspired by it and add all the details that you need.

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Soft skills 101: definition + 50 examples

Learn all about soft skills in this comprehensive guide. Discover how developing these interpersonal attributes can enhance your professional success.

Soft skills are becoming increasingly important in today's job market. They refer to the personal attributes that enable you to interact effectively with others, such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management. Employers are looking for candidates who possess these skills in addition to their technical expertise. In this article, we will guide beginners on how to showcase their soft skills on their resume.

What are soft skills?

Soft skills refer to a set of personal attributes, behaviors, and social attitudes that enable individuals to interact effectively with others in a workplace or social environment. These skills are essential for building healthy relationships, communicating effectively, solving problems, and collaborating with others. Soft skills are intangible and subjective qualities that cannot be measured or quantified like hard skills. They include

• communication
• problem-solving
• critical thinking
• adaptability
• time management
• emotional intelligence

(More examples below)

Developing soft skills is crucial in today's job market, where employers value employees who can demonstrate a range of interpersonal skills that can help organizations thrive in a fast-paced, competitive environment. Moreover, soft skills are not just limited to the workplace. They also play a significant role in our personal lives, helping us build meaningful relationships, manage conflicts, and navigate social situations effectively.

Soft skills are often developed through life experiences, practice, and self-reflection, and can be honed through various methods such as attending workshops, reading books, or seeking feedback from others. In summary, soft skills are a vital component of personal and professional success and are essential for individuals looking to achieve their goals and make a positive impact in the world.

How to share soft skills

1. identify the soft skills required for the job.

The first step is to research the job requirements and identify the soft skills that are essential for the role. This information can be found in the job description or by speaking to people in the industry. Once you have a list of required soft skills, you can focus on highlighting them in your resume.

2. Incorporate soft skills into your resume objective or summary

Your resume objective or summary is the first thing that recruiters will read. This is an excellent opportunity to showcase your soft skills. You can incorporate them by using phrases such as "I am a highly motivated individual with excellent communication and teamwork skills."

3. Provide examples of your soft skills in the experience section

In the experience section of your resume, provide specific examples of how you have used your soft skills in previous roles. For example, if you are applying for a customer service role, you could highlight how you have resolved customer complaints by utilizing your problem-solving skills. Use action verbs such as "managed," "coordinated," "facilitated," or "led" to describe your soft skills in action.

4. Highlight soft skills in the skills section

The skills section of your resume is an excellent opportunity to showcase your soft skills. List them under a separate heading and use bullet points to describe each one. For example, under the heading "Teamwork," you could list bullet points such as "collaborated with team members to achieve project goals" or "supported team members in achieving their individual goals."

5. Provide additional evidence of your soft skills

Finally, provide additional evidence of your soft skills in your resume by including any relevant certifications or awards. For example, if you have completed a leadership course or received an award for outstanding teamwork, be sure to include it in your resume.

Examples of Soft Skills

1. communication.

Effective communication is the cornerstone of any successful professional relationship. Being able to articulate your thoughts and ideas clearly and concisely in written or verbal form is crucial for maintaining productive working relationships. This soft skill also encompasses active listening, understanding and interpreting non-verbal cues, and adapting communication style to suit different audiences.

2. Teamwork

Teamwork is about working collaboratively with others to achieve a common goal. It involves sharing ideas and resources, taking on different roles and responsibilities, and being willing to support and assist team members as needed. A strong team player also understands the importance of building trust and rapport with colleagues, communicating effectively, and being receptive to feedback.

3. Problem-solving

The ability to identify, analyze and solve problems is an essential soft skill in any workplace. A skilled problem-solver has a logical and systematic approach to identifying the root cause of issues, as well as the creativity to generate and implement effective solutions. This skill requires a combination of critical thinking, research, data analysis, and innovation.

4. Time management

Effective time management is vital for meeting deadlines and achieving business goals. It requires a proactive approach to planning, prioritization and organization. This soft skill also involves the ability to stay focused and avoid distractions, delegate tasks when appropriate, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

5. Leadership

Leadership is the ability to inspire and motivate others to achieve a common objective. A skilled leader can provide direction and guidance, manage resources and people effectively, and make difficult decisions when necessary. This soft skill also encompasses effective communication, problem-solving, strategic thinking, and the ability to foster a positive and inclusive team culture.

6. Adaptability

Adaptability is the ability to adjust to change and new situations with ease. A highly adaptable person can work effectively in diverse environments, be flexible with changing priorities, and learn new skills and systems quickly. This soft skill also involves being open-minded, creative and innovative, and able to think on one's feet.

7. Creativity

Creativity involves the ability to generate new ideas, think outside the box, and approach problems from different angles. This soft skill requires imagination, curiosity, and the ability to see connections between seemingly disparate ideas. Creativity is essential for innovation, process improvement, and finding new solutions to complex problems.

Empathy is the ability to understand and relate to others' emotions and experiences. This soft skill involves active listening, showing compassion, and being able to put oneself in others' shoes. Empathy is crucial for building strong relationships, resolving conflicts, and creating a positive and inclusive workplace culture.

9. Conflict resolution

Conflict resolution is the ability to manage and resolve conflicts effectively. A skilled conflict resolver can identify the underlying causes of conflict, communicate clearly and empathetically, and negotiate win-win solutions. This soft skill also involves active listening, problem-solving, and the ability to remain calm and objective under pressure.

10. Active listening

Active listening is the ability to focus on and understand the speaker's message fully. This soft skill involves paying attention to non-verbal cues, asking clarifying questions, and providing feedback to the speaker. Active listening is essential for effective communication, building trust and rapport, and resolving conflicts.

11. Critical thinking

Critical thinking is the ability to analyze information objectively and make informed decisions. This soft skill involves evaluating evidence, identifying assumptions, and recognizing biases. A skilled critical thinker can synthesize complex information, consider multiple perspectives, and make logical and evidence-based conclusions.

12. Cultural competence

Cultural competence is the ability to interact effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. This soft skill involves understanding and respecting cultural differences, being aware of one's own biases, and adapting communication and behavior to suit different cultural contexts. A culturally competent person can build strong relationships with people from all walks of life.

13. Customer service

Customer service is the ability to provide exceptional service to customers and clients. This soft skill involves actively listening to customers' needs, providing accurate and timely information, and resolving issues in a timely and professional manner. A skilled customer service provider can build strong customer relationships, foster loyalty, and enhance the company's reputation.

14. Decision-making

Decision-making is the ability to make effective decisions based on available information. This soft skill involves weighing different options, considering potential outcomes, and evaluating risks and benefits. A skilled decision-maker can make timely and effective decisions, communicate their reasoning clearly, and be accountable for their choices.

15. Emotional intelligence

Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize and manage one's own emotions and the emotions of others. This soft skill involves being aware of one's own emotional state, being empathetic towards others, and responding appropriately to emotional cues. A person with high emotional intelligence can build strong relationships, resolve conflicts effectively, and lead with empathy.

16. Flexibility

Flexibility is the ability to adapt to changing circumstances and handle multiple tasks simultaneously. This soft skill involves being open-minded, responsive to feedback, and able to adjust to new situations with ease. A flexible person can work effectively in fast-paced environments, handle unexpected challenges, and maintain a positive attitude.

17. Goal-setting

Goal-setting is the ability to set achievable goals and work towards achieving them. This soft skill involves being proactive, organized, and focused on results. A person who sets effective goals can prioritize tasks, track progress, and maintain motivation in the face of challenges.

18. Interpersonal skills

Interpersonal skills are the ability to build and maintain positive relationships with others. This soft skill involves effective communication, active listening, empathy, and conflict resolution. A person with strong interpersonal skills can build rapport, establish trust, and collaborate effectively with others.

19. Negotiation

Negotiation is the ability to negotiate and resolve conflicts effectively. This soft skill involves identifying common ground, being persuasive, and finding win-win solutions. A skilled negotiator can build relationships, resolve conflicts, and achieve mutually beneficial outcomes.

20. Patience

Patience is the ability to remain calm and composed in challenging situations. This soft skill involves self-control, emotional regulation, and the ability to take a long-term view. A patient person can stay focused on goals, maintain relationships, and handle difficult situations with grace and resilience.

21. Persuasion

Persuasion is the ability to convince others of one's ideas and opinions. This soft skill involves effective communication, building trust, and being able to present a compelling argument. A skilled persuader can influence decisions, build consensus, and negotiate win-win outcomes.

22. Positive attitude

A positive attitude is the ability to maintain a positive and optimistic outlook. This soft skill involves being resilient, adaptable, and solution-oriented. A person with a positive attitude can motivate others, foster collaboration, and build strong relationships even in difficult circumstances.

23. Presentation skills

Presentation skills are the ability to present ideas and information clearly and persuasively. This soft skill involves effective communication, organization, and the ability to engage an audience. A skilled presenter can influence decisions, build credibility, and create a lasting impression.

24. Problem analysis

Problem analysis is the ability to identify and analyze problems to find effective solutions. This soft skill involves critical thinking, data analysis, and the ability to think creatively. A skilled problem analyst can identify root causes, develop effective strategies, and implement sustainable solutions.

25. Self-motivation

Self-motivation is the ability to motivate oneself to achieve goals and overcome obstacles. This soft skill involves being proactive, focused, and disciplined. A person with high self-motivation can stay on track, take initiative, and achieve success in the face of challenges.

26. Stress management

Stress management is the ability to manage stress effectively and remain calm under pressure. This soft skill involves self-awareness, emotional regulation, and coping strategies. A person with strong stress management skills can maintain productivity, build resilience, and manage relationships effectively even in high-pressure situations.

27. Time management

Effective time management is vital for meeting deadlines and achieving business goals. This soft skill requires a proactive approach to planning, prioritization, and organization. A skilled time manager can maintain focus, avoid distractions, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

28. Trustworthiness

Trustworthiness is the ability to maintain the trust and confidence of others. This soft skill involves being honest, reliable, and accountable. A person with high trustworthiness can build strong relationships, foster teamwork, and promote a culture of trust and respect.

29. Verbal communication

Verbal communication is the ability to articulate ideas and information clearly and effectively. This soft skill involves effective listening, tone, and the ability to adapt communication style to different audiences. A person with strong verbal communication skills can build rapport, resolve conflicts, and motivate others effectively.

30. Writing

Writing is the ability to write clearly and effectively to convey ideas and information. This soft skill involves grammar, syntax, and effective communication. A skilled writer can communicate complex ideas clearly, persuade readers, and create compelling content that engages and inspires.

31. Attention to detail

Attention to detail is the ability to notice small details and ensure accuracy and quality in work. This soft skill involves being meticulous, thorough, and focused on delivering high-quality results. A person with strong attention to detail can minimize errors, enhance productivity, and maintain customer satisfaction.

32. Coaching and mentoring

Coaching and mentoring is the ability to guide, teach and mentor others to achieve their goals. This soft skill involves providing feedback, modeling behavior, and supporting others in their professional development. A skilled coach and mentor can build relationships, inspire growth, and promote a positive team culture.

33. Conflict management

Conflict management is the ability to manage conflicts effectively and reach win-win solutions. This soft skill involves effective communication, active listening, and negotiation. A person with strong conflict management skills can resolve disputes, build consensus, and promote collaboration in a team environment.

34. Cultural awareness

Cultural awareness is the ability to understand and respect cultural differences in the workplace. This soft skill involves recognizing and appreciating diverse perspectives, beliefs, and values. A culturally aware person can work effectively in a global environment, build relationships across cultures, and promote inclusion and diversity.

35. Decision-making

Decision-making is the ability to make informed and timely decisions. This soft skill involves analyzing data, evaluating options, and considering the impact of decisions on stakeholders. A skilled decision-maker can make sound decisions, take calculated risks, and achieve business objectives effectively.

36. Dependability

Dependability is the ability to be reliable and trustworthy in completing tasks and meeting deadlines. This soft skill involves being accountable, punctual, and responsive. A dependable person can maintain high standards, meet expectations, and build trust and respect among colleagues.

37. Diversity and inclusion

Diversity and inclusion is the ability to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and foster an inclusive workplace culture. This soft skill involves being open-minded, respectful, and supportive of differences. A person with strong diversity and inclusion skills can build a sense of belonging, promote creativity, and enhance business outcomes.

38. Enthusiasm

Enthusiasm is the ability to approach work with passion and energy. This soft skill involves being optimistic, engaged, and committed to achieving results. A person with strong enthusiasm can inspire others, promote positive attitudes, and drive success in a team environment.

39. Financial management

Financial management is the ability to manage financial resources effectively. This soft skill involves understanding financial principles, analyzing data, and making sound decisions. A person with strong financial management skills can optimize resources, minimize risk, and achieve business objectives.

40. Humility

Humility is the ability to admit mistakes and learn from feedback. This soft skill involves being open-minded, reflective, and willing to grow. A person with strong humility can build credibility, promote a culture of learning, and maintain positive relationships with colleagues.

41. Initiative

Initiative is the ability to take proactive steps to solve problems and improve processes. This soft skill involves being self-motivated, creative, and willing to take calculated risks. A person with strong initiative can drive innovation, enhance productivity, and achieve business goals.

42. Innovation

Innovation is the ability to create new ideas, products, or processes. This soft skill involves being creative, adaptable, and willing to take risks. A person with strong innovation skills can drive growth, solve complex problems, and enhance customer satisfaction.

43. Intercultural communication

Intercultural communication is the ability to communicate effectively across different cultures and languages. This soft skill involves being aware of cultural differences, using appropriate language and tone, and adapting to cultural norms. A person with strong intercultural communication skills can build strong relationships, promote understanding, and enhance global business outcomes.

44. Interpersonal communication

Interpersonal communication is the ability to communicate effectively and build strong relationships with others. This soft skill involves active listening, empathy, and effective use of non-verbal cues. A person with strong interpersonal communication skills can build trust, resolve conflicts, and promote collaboration in a team environment.

45. Learning agility

Learning agility is the ability to adapt to new situations and learn quickly. This soft skill involves being open-minded, curious, and willing to experiment. A person with strong learning agility can acquire new skills and knowledge, adapt to changing circumstances, and enhance personal and professional growth.

46. Organizational skills

Organizational skills are the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively. This soft skill involves being organized, efficient, and able to prioritize tasks based on their importance and urgency. A person with strong organizational skills can meet deadlines, maximize productivity, and achieve business goals.

47. Presentation skills

Presentation skills are the ability to deliver compelling and engaging presentations. This soft skill involves being articulate, persuasive, and confident in delivering presentations to different audiences. A person with strong presentation skills can influence decisions, build credibility, and enhance business outcomes.

48. Resilience

Resilience is the ability to cope with stress and bounce back from setbacks. This soft skill involves being adaptable, positive, and able to maintain perspective in difficult situations. A person with strong resilience can maintain productivity, overcome obstacles, and maintain positive relationships with colleagues.

49. Strategic thinking

Strategic thinking is the ability to think ahead and plan for the future. This soft skill involves being able to identify trends, anticipate challenges, and develop effective strategies to achieve business objectives. A person with strong strategic thinking skills can maximize opportunities, minimize risk, and enhance business outcomes.

50. Work ethic

Work ethic is the ability to work hard, be persistent, and demonstrate a strong commitment to work. This soft skill involves being reliable, responsible, and willing to go the extra mile to achieve results. A person with strong work ethic can maintain high standards, build trust with colleagues, and achieve success in their career.

In conclusion, showcasing your soft skills on your resume is essential in today's job market. By identifying the soft skills required for the job, incorporating them into your resume objective or summary, providing examples in the experience section, highlighting them in the skills section, and providing additional evidence, you can set yourself apart from other candidates and increase your chances of landing the job.

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Related stories, most recent stories.

Top Soft Skills for 2024 [90+ Examples for Your Resume]

Soft skills are core skills sought after in every profession.

Whether you’re a server in a restaurant or a big-shot CEO, your soft skills will be as decisive for your success as your technical know-how. 

Motivation and time management, leadership, and open-mindedness - all of those are widely sought-after soft skills.

And these are just a few out of many! 

But you might be wondering which soft skills are relevant for YOUR career? And which ones should you focus on developing?

This is where this article comes in!

What Are Soft Skills?

• Soft Skills Vs Hard Skills

Top 10 Soft Skills Employers Love (For Any Profession)

90+ soft skills examples for 10 careers.

• How to List Soft Skills On Your Resume

Soft skills consist of a combination of people, social, and communication skills, character traits, attitudes, and mindsets, as well as social and emotional characteristics, among others, which are sought for in all professions. 

Some examples of soft skills include:

• Communication
• Problem-solving

If you’re applying for a job, soft skills are key in setting apart ideal candidates from adequate ones - especially when recruiters are deciding among applicants with similar work and education experience.  

Studies also attest to it - 97% of employers say that soft skills are either as important or more important than hard skills and that more than half of new employees that fail within 18 months do so because they lack soft skills. 

Soft Skills Vs Hard Skills 

There are two types of skills: hard skills and soft skills . 

Hard skills , also referred to as measurable abilities, include anything from mastering Photoshop to emergency care knowledge. You obtain hard skills through your education, training, certifications, and professional experience. 

Soft skills , also called people skills, are the mix of social and interpersonal skills , character traits, and professional attitudes that all jobs require. Teamwork, patience, time management, communication, are just a few examples. Soft skills can be personality traits or they can be traits obtained through life experiences. 

Usually, you’d include both hard and soft skills in your resume as follows:

But for the most part, skills are something a recruiter learns about you through an interview.

A good resume includes both soft and hard skills. Check our article on How to List Skills in Your Resume to learn how to do it right. 

Soft skills can tell a lot about how a candidate will interact in the workplace, how they might react under pressure, or what their professional potential is.

As such, a lot of employers prioritize hiring employees with the right soft skills over hard skills.

But which soft skills are really important, and which ones are less so?

In 2024, the most in-demand soft skills are as follows:

• Time management
• Adaptability
• Interpersonal skills
• Attention to detail

#1. Time Management

Time management involves the ability to use your time wisely to work as efficiently as possible. Some sub-skills related to time management are: 

• Stress management
• Organization
• Prioritizing
• Goal setting

#2. Communication

Communication is the ability to convey or share ideas and feelings effectively and it’s among the top soft skills employers require across all fields. 

The most common communication skills are: 

• Verbal communication
• Written communication
• Presentation
• Constructive feedback
• Active listening

#3. Adaptability

Your adaptability shows how well you can embrace change and adjust to it. 

Companies and work environments constantly change: new team members come in, old ones leave, companies get bought or sold, and so on.

So, you need to be able to adapt to different situations at your workplace.

Here are some skills related to adaptability: 

• Self-management
• Self-motivation

#4. Problem-solving

Being able to analytically and creatively solve problems will come in handy no matter your job. 

After all, there’s no job in the world where you won’t have any problems to deal with. That is why creative problem-solvers are always in high demand. 

These are the skills associated with problem-solving: 

• Logical reasoning
• Observation
• Brainstorming
• Decision making

#5. Teamwork

Teamwork will never cease to be a must-have soft skill. It helps you work effectively in a group and accomplish tasks. Examples of skills related to teamwork are: 

• Conflict management and resolution
• Collaboration
• Coordination
• Idea exchange

#6. Creativity 

We’re used to linking creativity with fields like art, or design, but creativity is a broad term that involves several sub-skills from questioning to experimenting. As such, any professional can make just as much use of creative skills as artists. 

Here are some examples of creative skills: 

• Imagination
• Mind-mapping
• Experimentation
• Questioning

#7. Leadership 

Leadership refers to the ability to mentor, train, or guide. No matter the industry, employers prefer to hire applicants who show they have leadership potential for 2 reasons:

• Employees with leadership skills show more initiative and are more likely to invest themselves in helping the company grow.
• The company can eventually promote employees with strong leadership roles to better management positions.

Skills related to leadership include: 

• Management skills
• Authenticity
• Cultural intelligence

#8. Interpersonal Skills 

Interpersonal skills are all about how well you interact with others, tend after relationships, and make a positive impression on those around you. 

#9. Work Ethic 

Work ethic relates to valuing work and putting in the effort to yield results. It’s a soft skill that employers in literally every job you’ll ever apply for will appreciate. Some soft skills related to work ethic are: 

• Responsibility
• Dependability
• Professionalism

#10. Attention to Detail 

Here’s another skill no employer will reject - the ability to be thorough and accurate in your work. Paying attention even to minor details is what sets apart dedicated employees from those who just want to get the job done and go home. 

Some other soft skills related to attention to detail are: 

• Introspection
• Critical observation

Now sure which soft skills are good to mention for your profession?

Below, we compiled a list of 90+ best soft skills for 10 different career paths. Just find the one that’s relevant for you and plug the skills into your resume!

#1. Customer Service 

Customer service is all about soft skills, especially since it involves dealing with people. Be it in person, over the phone, or on the internet, your ‘people skills’ need to be on point if you are to work with demanding customers.  

Here are some of the most popular soft skills in customer service:

• Listening skills
• Self-control 
• Positive attitude
• Assertiveness
• Conflict resolution
• Depersonalization
• Taking responsibility 

#2. Healthcare 

A career in healthcare takes years of studying, a lot of training, and a variety of hard skills. At the same time, healthcare workers also need to be able to work well under pressure or pay close attention to detail. 

Studies pointing to the importance of empathy in providing quality care, for example, are among many highlighting how soft skills are essential in developing a patient-centered approach. 

Here are some other examples of soft skills in healthcare:  

• Stress management 
• Positive attitude 
• Flexibility 
• Time management 
• Receptive attitude 
• Attention to detail 

#3. Digital Marketing

Marketing surely is one of the most popular career choices, but the fast development of new technologies and the transition to online work have brought digital marketing under the spotlight too. 

But just because the industry utilizes digital technologies to market products and services doesn’t mean a career in digital marketing doesn’t require its own set of soft skills. 

Here are 10 essential soft skills for a career in digital marketing:

• Willingness to learn
• Multitasking
• Accepting criticism

#4. Management 

An essential task of a successful manager is to coordinate and administer human resources. This makes soft skills all the more important for any type of management role. 

Here are some examples of what’s required from managers in terms of soft skills: 

• Emotional intelligence
• Task delegation 
• Negotiation 

#5. Education 

Keeping up with the times is essential for a career in education since you mostly get to deal with younger people. This involves continuously upgrading your hard skills, especially when it comes to new teaching methods and online learning. 

The soft skills required from an educator, on the other hand, haven’t changed drastically over time. Here are some of the most popular ones: 

• Written and oral communication
• Public speaking
• Critical thinking 
• Motivation 
• Conflict resolution 

Soft skills are vital if you want to succeed in sales. After all, sales involve a combination of soft skills that range from negotiation to persuasion and empathy. It doesn’t matter whether you work over the phone or on the internet - doing sales will always require that your soft skills are on point.  

Let’s look at ten soft skills required for a sales professional: 

• Negotiation
• Sociability 
• Critical thinking

Being a successful designer is about a lot more than just remote design work behind your PC screen. In addition to creativity and attention to detail, a designer needs to be an active listener and open to feedback to bring the client’s vision to life. 

Here are the top soft skills for any designer:

• Visual communication
• Creativity 
• Aesthetics 

#8. Accounting 

Maybe accounting and soft skills don’t feel like the right mix of words, but a career in accounting also requires its own set of soft skills. 

Here’s what they boil down to:

• Effective written and oral communication
• Organization 
• System analysis
• Deductive reasoning
• Active learning

#9. Business Analytics 

Another in-demand profession in today’s digital world, business analysts are tasked with balancing and combining business knowledge with advancing technologies. 

Here are the soft skills required from a business analyst:

• Quality client service
• Strategic thinking
• Technical writing
• Team building
• Presentation and public thinking

#10. Web Development 

Being good at C++ or Java is not all it takes to make a career in web development. There are several soft skills required from developers too, such as creativity and problem-solving. 

In other cases, developers are required to collaborate with designers to bring an idea to life, and that’s where active listening comes in. 

The top soft skills for web developers consist of the following:

• Active listening 
• Open-mindedness 
• Accountability
• Time and project management

If you’re looking for more soft skills to put on your resume, get inspired from these 100+ essential skills to put on your resume !

How to List Soft Skills On Your Resume 

The way you list your skills on your resume matters. 

For example, you need to ensure that you’re listing the right soft skills in the first place (and that they’re relevant for the role you’re applying for).

You should also back those soft skills up with experiences - you can’t just say “I’m a great leader” if nothing in your resume supports this claim.

So, here are our top 4 tips on how to list your soft skills in your resume and get an edge over the competition.

#1. Tailor Soft Skills to the Job

The more job-specific you are with the skills on your resume, the better. 

What we mean by this is, you should only list skills that are relevant to the position. 

For example, if you’re applying to be a server, you probably won’t need problem-solving and critical thinking skills as much as effective communication and teamwork. 

Tailoring your soft skills to the job is easier than you think - all you need to do is use the job description as a cheat sheet. Basically, just read the job ad in detail and make a list of the required skills. Then, add them to your resume.

Let’s assume you’re applying for a sales manager position. The requirements are:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Communications, or related field.
• 5 years of experience in sales.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Proven ability to lead a team to meet quotas.
• Excellent leadership skills.
• Experience setting sales goals.

You just got four skills tailored to the job just by reading the requirements:  

• Oral and written communication skills
• Goal-oriented

#2. Back-Up Soft Skills With Other Sections 

Anyone can mention that they have amazing critical thinking and leadership skills in their resume.

Unless they back this up with some facts and experiences, though, the recruiter won’t take you seriously.

Now, this may not be as easy as tailoring them to the job, but there are certainly ways around it. 

Let’s say you’re applying as a creative director for an advertising agency.

Your required soft skills would probably include some of the following: 

• Oral communication
• Project management

First things first - you’d mention these skills in the dedicated skills section.

Afterward, you’d back them up as follows:

When listing your work experiences, mention achievements or responsibilities that show off these soft skills.

For example, to show off your project management skills, you can write:

Coordinated 10 people to create a YouTube video ad for a client that resulted in the client’s revenues increasing by over $50,000 within a month.

Or, to showcase your creativity, you can include the following bit:

Conceptualized and pitched an ad idea that went on to win the Epica Award.

There’s a lot more to creating a compelling resume than listing your skills the right way. Check out our complete guide on how to write a resume to learn more.

#3. Use Transferable Skills When Switching Careers

Transferable skills can be particularly useful if you’re switching careers or changing directions within the industry. They include skills that are not job-specific, but still useful to the position. 

Let’s assume you are leaving your job as a news reporter and applying for a Public Relations position. Although the industries are different, both are communications-related professions. 

This means you can list some relevant soft skills acquired as a reporter on your new resume to show you’re not completely unfamiliar with the job. 

As a news reporter, your soft skills can include (but are not limited to): 

• Communication skills
• Presentation skills

These are all skills you can easily ‘transfer’ into your PR resume and show you can take on the change. 

Soft Skills FAQ

Still have some questions about soft skills?

Check out our FAQ below!

1. How are soft skills essential for career growth?

Soft skills consist of people and social skills, as well as career attributes, that define how you interact in the workplace, handle the responsibility or seek improvement, among others. As such, they are important for career growth no matter your industry, and employers often prioritize hiring employees with the right soft skills over hard skills. 

2. How are soft skills different from hard skills? 

Hard skills are measurable skills that you obtain through your education, training, certifications, and professional experience. Soft skills, on the other hand, can be personality traits or they can be obtained through life experiences. All professions require a mix of both.

3. What are recruiters' top 10 soft skills?

The top 10 soft skills all recruiters love despite your profession are the following: 

• Teamwork skills

4. Can soft skills be acquired?

Soft skills are non-technical skills, such as people, social skills, and career attributes, they’re not something that can be taught in an afternoon. 

That said, it IS possible to pick up new soft skills - it’s just going to require a lot of personal development from your end.

5. Can you put soft skills on a resume?

Yep! Soft skills go under the “Skills” resume section .

When listing your skills, we recommend you add a skill level to them (e.g. beginner, intermediate, etc.). This way, the recruiter has a much better idea of how well you know any given skill.

Key Takeaways 

Phew! And that wraps up everything you need to know about soft skills and your career.

Now, let’s do a quick recap of the most important points we covered in this article:

• Soft skills consist of a combination of people, social, and communication skills, character traits, attitudes, and mindsets, among others, which are sought for in all professions.
• There are two types of skills: soft skills and hard skills. For the most part, skills are something a recruiter learns about you through an interview, although both go into your resume.
• Although several soft skills are valued in every profession, each industry requires its own set of soft skills for a successful career in the field. So, when applying for a job, make sure to list soft skills that are relevant for YOU.

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Ideas and insights from Harvard Business Publishing Corporate Learning

Powerful and Effective Presentation Skills: More in Demand Now Than Ever

When we talk with our L&D colleagues from around the globe, we often hear that presentation skills training is one of the top opportunities they’re looking to provide their learners. And this holds true whether their learners are individual contributors, people managers, or senior leaders. This is not surprising.

Effective communications skills are a powerful career activator, and most of us are called upon to communicate in some type of formal presentation mode at some point along the way.

For instance, you might be asked to brief management on market research results, walk your team through a new process, lay out the new budget, or explain a new product to a client or prospect. Or you may want to build support for a new idea, bring a new employee into the fold, or even just present your achievements to your manager during your performance review.

And now, with so many employees working from home or in hybrid mode, and business travel in decline, there’s a growing need to find new ways to make effective presentations when the audience may be fully virtual or a combination of in person and remote attendees.

Whether you’re making a standup presentation to a large live audience, or a sit-down one-on-one, whether you’re delivering your presentation face to face or virtually, solid presentation skills matter.

Even the most seasoned and accomplished presenters may need to fine-tune or update their skills. Expectations have changed over the last decade or so. Yesterday’s PowerPoint which primarily relied on bulleted points, broken up by the occasional clip-art image, won’t cut it with today’s audience.

The digital revolution has revolutionized the way people want to receive information. People expect presentations that are more visually interesting. They expect to see data, metrics that support assertions. And now, with so many previously in-person meetings occurring virtually, there’s an entirely new level of technical preparedness required.

The leadership development tools and the individual learning opportunities you’re providing should include presentation skills training that covers both the evergreen fundamentals and the up-to-date capabilities that can make or break a presentation.

So, just what should be included in solid presentation skills training? Here’s what I think.

The fundamentals will always apply When it comes to making a powerful and effective presentation, the fundamentals will always apply. You need to understand your objective. Is it strictly to convey information, so that your audience’s knowledge is increased? Is it to persuade your audience to take some action? Is it to convince people to support your idea? Once you understand what your objective is, you need to define your central message. There may be a lot of things you want to share with your audience during your presentation, but find – and stick with – the core, the most important point you want them to walk away with. And make sure that your message is clear and compelling.

You also need to tailor your presentation to your audience. Who are they and what might they be expecting? Say you’re giving a product pitch to a client. A technical team may be interested in a lot of nitty-gritty product detail. The business side will no doubt be more interested in what returns they can expect on their investment.

Another consideration is the setting: is this a formal presentation to a large audience with questions reserved for the end, or a presentation in a smaller setting where there’s the possibility for conversation throughout? Is your presentation virtual or in-person? To be delivered individually or as a group? What time of the day will you be speaking? Will there be others speaking before you and might that impact how your message will be received?

Once these fundamentals are established, you’re in building mode. What are the specific points you want to share that will help you best meet your objective and get across your core message? Now figure out how to convey those points in the clearest, most straightforward, and succinct way. This doesn’t mean that your presentation has to be a series of clipped bullet points. No one wants to sit through a presentation in which the presenter reads through what’s on the slide. You can get your points across using stories, fact, diagrams, videos, props, and other types of media.

Visual design matters While you don’t want to clutter up your presentation with too many visual elements that don’t serve your objective and can be distracting, using a variety of visual formats to convey your core message will make your presentation more memorable than slides filled with text. A couple of tips: avoid images that are cliched and overdone. Be careful not to mix up too many different types of images. If you’re using photos, stick with photos. If you’re using drawn images, keep the style consistent. When data are presented, stay consistent with colors and fonts from one type of chart to the next. Keep things clear and simple, using data to support key points without overwhelming your audience with too much information. And don’t assume that your audience is composed of statisticians (unless, of course, it is).

When presenting qualitative data, brief videos provide a way to engage your audience and create emotional connection and impact. Word clouds are another way to get qualitative data across.

Practice makes perfect You’ve pulled together a perfect presentation. But it likely won’t be perfect unless it’s well delivered. So don’t forget to practice your presentation ahead of time. Pro tip: record yourself as you practice out loud. This will force you to think through what you’re going to say for each element of your presentation. And watching your recording will help you identify your mistakes—such as fidgeting, using too many fillers (such as “umm,” or “like”), or speaking too fast.

A key element of your preparation should involve anticipating any technical difficulties. If you’ve embedded videos, make sure they work. If you’re presenting virtually, make sure that the lighting is good, and that your speaker and camera are working. Whether presenting in person or virtually, get there early enough to work out any technical glitches before your presentation is scheduled to begin. Few things are a bigger audience turn-off than sitting there watching the presenter struggle with the delivery mechanisms!

Finally, be kind to yourself. Despite thorough preparation and practice, sometimes, things go wrong, and you need to recover in the moment, adapt, and carry on. It’s unlikely that you’ll have caused any lasting damage and the important thing is to learn from your experience, so your next presentation is stronger.

How are you providing presentation skills training for your learners?

Manika Gandhi is Senior Learning Design Manager at Harvard Business Publishing Corporate Learning. Email her at [email protected] .

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• HR Toolkit |
• Definitions |

What are soft skills?

Soft skills are general traits not specific to any job, helping employees excel in any workplace. They include communication, teamwork, and adaptability, often termed as transferable or interpersonal skills. They’re essential for professional success.

An experienced recruiter and HR professional who has transferred her expertise to insightful content to support others in HR.

At a minimum, employees need role-specific knowledge and abilities to perform their job duties. But, those who usually stand out as high performers need some additional qualities, such as the ability to communicate clearly, the ability to work well with others and the ability to manage their time effectively. These abilities are examples of soft skills.

Neil Carberry , Director for Employment and Skills at CBI , talks about the balance between attitude and technical skills: “Business is clear that developing the right attitudes and attributes in people – such as resilience, respect, enthusiasm, and creativity – is just as important as academic or technical skills. In an ever more competitive jobs market it is such qualities that will give our young talent a head start and also allow existing employees to progress to higher skilled, better-paid roles”​​.

According to research conducted by Harvard University, 85% of job success comes from having well-developed soft and people skills , with only 15% attributed to technical skills. This underlines the substantial impact soft skills have on professional success​​.

In addition, Deloitte’s research indicates that jobs requiring intensive soft skills are expected to grow 2.5 times faster than other job types. By 2030, it is predicted that 63% of all jobs will be comprised of soft skills roles, showcasing the growing demand for these competencies in the labor market​​.

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• 15 soft skills examples that are essential traits among employees

Why are soft skills important?

How do you assess soft skills in candidates, here are 15 soft skills examples that are essential traits among employees:.

• Communication
• Problem-solving
• Time management
• Critical thinking
• Decision-making
• Organizational
• Stress management
• Adaptability
• Conflict management
• Resourcefulness
• Openness to criticism

Forbes adds to the above Emotional Intelligence and Work Ethic, which are as important as the others mentioned.

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In job ads, it’s common to include requirements such as “communication skills” or “a problem-solving attitude”. That’s because soft skills help you:

• Example: An employee with good time management skills knows how to prioritize tasks to meet deadlines.
• Example: When two candidates have a similar academic and professional background, you’re more likely to hire the one who’s more collaborative and flexible.
• Example: For a junior position, it makes sense to look for candidates with a “willingness to learn” and an “adaptive personality”, as opposed to hiring an expert.
• Example: When hiring a salesperson, you want to find a candidate who’s familiar with the industry and has experience in sales, but is also resilient, knows how to negotiate and has excellent verbal communication abilities.
• Example: If you value accountability and you want to have employees who can take initiative, it’s important to look for candidates who are not afraid to take ownership of their job, who are decisive and have a problem-solving aptitude.

How to evaluate soft skills in the workplace

Identifying and assessing soft skills in candidates is no easy feat: those qualities are often intangible and can’t be measured by simply looking at what soft skills each candidate includes in their resume. Besides, candidates will try to present themselves as positively as possible during interviews, so it’s your job to dig deeper to uncover what they can really bring to the table in terms of soft skills.

1. Know what you’re looking for in potential hires beforehand and ask all candidates the same questions.

Before starting your interview process for an open role, consider what kind of soft skills are important in this role and prepare specific questions to assess those skills. This step is important for you to evaluate all candidates objectively. For example, in a sales role, good communication is key. By preparing specific questions that evaluate how candidates use their communication skills on the job, you’re more likely to find someone who can actually communicate with clients effectively, instead of hiring someone who only appears so (e.g. because they’re extroverted).

To help you out, we gathered examples of soft skills questions that test specific skills:

• Adaptability interview questions
• Analytical interview questions
• Change management interview questions
• Communication interview questions
• Critical-thinking interview questions
• Decision-making interview questions
• Leadership interview questions
• Presentation interview questions
• Problem-solving interview questions
• Team player interview questions

2. Ask behavioral questions to learn how they’ve used soft skills in previous jobs.

Past behaviors indicate how candidates behave in business settings, so they can be used as a soft skill assessment, too. For example, you can ask targeted questions to learn how candidates have resolved conflicts, how they’ve managed time-sensitive tasks or how they’ve worked in group projects.

Here are some ideas:

• How do you prioritize work when there are multiple projects going on at the same time?
• What happened when you disagreed with a colleague about how you should approach a project or deal with a problem at work?

Check our list of behavioral interview questions for more examples.

3. Use hypothetical scenarios, games and activities that test specific abilities.

Often, it’s useful to simulate job duties to test how candidates would approach regular tasks and challenges. That’s because each job, team and company is different, so you want to find a candidate who fits your unique environment. For example, a role-playing activity can help you assess whether salespeople have the negotiation skills you’re specifically looking for. Or, you can use a game-based exercise to identify candidates who solve problems creatively.

Here are some examples:

• If you had two important deadlines coming up, how would you prioritize your tasks?
• If one of your team members was underperforming, how would you give them feedback?

For more ideas on using hypothetical scenarios to evaluate candidates, take a look at our situational interview questions .

4. Pay attention to candidates’ answers and reactions during interviews

You can learn a lot about candidates’ soft skills through job-specific questions and assignments. Even if you want to primarily test candidates’ knowledge and hard skills, you can still notice strong and weak points in soft skills, too. For example, one candidate might claim to have excellent attention to detail, but if their written assignment has many typos and errors, then that’s a red flag. Likewise, when a candidate gives you clear, well-structured answers, it’s a hint they’re good communicators.

To form an objective opinion on candidates’ soft skills and abilities, make sure you take everything into consideration: from the way they interact with you during interviews to their performance on job-related tasks. This way, you’ll be more confident you select the most competent employees, but also those who fit well to your work environment.

Want more definitions? See our complete library of HR Terms .

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How to develop soft skills

Advises clients in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East on talent management, workforce planning, performance management, organizational change, leadership, and development

November 11, 2019 As automation and artificial intelligence dramatically change the nature of work, employees must fine tune the social and emotional abilities machines cannot master. To encourage this behavior, employers must adjust the ways they assess, educate, train and reward their workforce on soft skills such as collaboration, communication and critical thinking.

Our previous post demonstrated the value of developing and rewarding soft skills, considering the impact of automation and AI on the workplace of the future. But what exactly are soft skills, and how can organizations meet these needs?

What are soft skills?

Soft skills, which are commonly defined as non-technical skills that enable someone to interact effectively and harmoniously with others, are vital to organizations and can impact culture, mindsets, leadership, attitudes and behaviors. These skills fall into the following categories:

• Advanced communication and negotiation skills
• Interpersonal skills and empathy
• Leadership and management skills
• Entrepreneurship and initiative-taking
• Adaptability and continuous learning skills
• Teaching and training skills

A key difference among today’s large-scale skill shift and those in the past—including the transformative transition from agriculture to manufacturing—is the urgency for workers who exhibit these capabilities.

Reskilling at scale is a concern and priority for 80 percent of C-suite executives worldwide, according to a McKinsey survey . Reskilling significant portions of the workforce within the next 5-10 years will be required— tens of millions of mid-career, middle-age workers , particularly in advanced economies—with the development of soft skills a key element.

How can organizations facilitate reskilling?

Developing required soft skills and ensuring employees, and in turn organizations, are set up for success isn’t as simple as popping in a training video. Instead, companies must change their employees’ processes and behaviors—a much harder task.

Assessment is an important first step. Sizing the soft skill gap proves particularly challenging, since they typically lack systematic evaluation and certification mechanisms. HR departments must be equipped with a framework that codifies soft skills and defines their respective evaluation criteria.

For example, several European firms are employing “stepping stone” initiatives to build a digital platform to help workers evaluate their soft skills, know their strengths and development needs, gain access to specific trainings, and get certified.

Effective reskilling requires blended learning journeys that mix traditional learning, including training, digital courses and job aids, with nontraditional methods, such as peer coaching. One retail giant has distributed over 17,000 virtual reality headsets that immerse employees in unfamiliar situations, such as their first Black Friday sales day, and is training them in new tech, soft skills and compliance.

People naturally operate based on incentives—they do what is rewarded. To encourage people to not only begin their soft skill learning journey but to continue with it, rewards and incentives are critical. One large advisory firm has recently implemented a series of digital badges to reward people who complete certain training sessions. Much like the progression of belts provided to martial artists, these badges serve as public recognition for others that the trainee is becoming an expert in a certain topic, thereby encouraging employees to further invest in key skills.

Given the critical need for soft skills now and in the future, training current employees is not enough. It is also crucial to ensure that new talent coming in the door is ready with the most critical skills on day one. Recruiting for soft skills can be tricky, but it generally involves structured interviews which elicit responses that include details about one’s past work and life experiences that contribute to who they are today, or situational judgment tests whereby the interviewer puts the candidate in a specific hypothetical scenario and asks how he or she would deal with it.

Employers providing soft skills training report positive impacts on their workforce, including higher productivity and improved results. As today’s skill shift accelerates, it is essential that organizations enhance and expand development initiatives for business longevity.

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Essential Soft Skills for the Workplace - Presentation Skills

By Amelia Hopkins

Presentation skills are fantastically important in the workplace. Knowing how to present your ideas, to a group or an individual, in a way which is both informative and persuasive, is the best tool in your arsenal for success and career advancement. 

Your presentation skills depend on a number of things and can be heavily influenced by your nationality, education, experience, childhood, and, simply, how much practice you’ve had. Some primary and secondary schools, for example, focus heavily on their students’ abilities to present and speak well. Other schools, such as those in more deprived areas, may be more focused on academic study, and less on the honing of conversational and presentational skills. This doesn’t mean that those without that head start can’t excel, however. Like all skills, with dedication and time, it can be learnt. This is reassuring because according to a 2014 Prezi survey, 70% of employed Americans agree that presentation skills are critical to their success at work. 

Developing these skills is, therefore, essential to succeeding in the workplace and the business world in general. No matter your job role, you’ll most likely be required to give presentations, whether that be to clients, your own team or auditoriums of people. We spoke to public speaking professional, Hugh Barnett of betterpublicspeaking.co.uk, for advice on perfecting your skills. 

1. Conquer your nerves 

Around 75% of people have some form of public speaking anxiety, so it is by no means an uncommon worry. Dealing with nerves can seem difficult, but there are many tried and tested coping methods. Try breathing in and out slowly, adding up numbers in your head (which tricks your brain into understanding you’re in no danger), or telling yourself that you’re excited about the presentation (a trick proven to improve performance in those suffering from anxiety). 

Mild discomfort can be overcome with practice. For anything more severe than that, consider speaking to a doctor: they’ll be able to recommend a form of cognitive behavior therapy or a therapist to get to the route of your problems and get past them.

For dealing with stage-fright, Barnett suggests imagining that your audience is composed of old friends, rather than the much-repeated underwear trick: “Smile, make eye contact, breathe deeply and take your time. Maybe have a lucky charm or a memento from someone you love in your pocket, this will help you feel safe.”

He also warns against letting stage-fright put you off presenting: “Anyone can become a proficient public speaker. Some find it easier than others, but anyone can learn essential techniques to help them present themselves more effectively. Your individuality is your greatest asset! With any activity that’s difficult, the more practice you do, the better you become. Be prepared to fail a bit too: Making mistakes can be the best way of learning to become better.”

2. Preparation is key

“Prepare and organize yourself meticulously.” Barnett recommends, and: “Make sure all your resources (laptop, smart-board and PowerPoint) work. Make friends with the technical staff!”

Doing your homework is more important now than it was at school – winging a presentation is not a ticket to success. Not only should you research your topic thoroughly, to ensure you’re prepared for any impromptu questions, but you should also run through the structure and timing to make sure you’re ready for anything. For particularly significant presentations, and for those who struggle with public speaking, running through them with a friend beforehand is a great way to understand any flaws.

3. Be careful with visual materials

Presentation slides and visual aids are not the same as notes. Do not just write everything down and read it off to your audience. Visual aids are there to add to a presentation, not replace it. Use it to reinforce your points with graphics or images, but not to repeat your words.

“Visual aids are great, but don’t present the speech to the visual aid.” Barnett advises, “Make sure you don’t turn your back on the audience when demonstrating with the aid. Make sure the visual aids work long before the presentation starts and have a contingency plan if they stop working.”

4. Know your audience

Are you presenting to your work colleagues or a buyer to whom you’re trying to sell? Your audience plays the largest role in your presentation and how you should structure it. Research your audience thoroughly and think about why they’re listening to you, then give them what they’re looking for. Know your numbers and know the correct presentational style. Work out if jokes will help and if you do intend to use humor, make sure it’s well placed and not risqué – you’re not Chris Rock.

5. Be careful about language

Make sure that the language you’re using is appropriate for the situation. Being too, or not sufficiently, verbose suggests that you aren’t good at reading situations or haven’t prepared correctly. Make sure your presentation is clear and use jargon only when you know your audience will understand it. Questions at the end are a good sign: as long as they’re exploring your presentation, not asking you to explain it.

6. Don’t be too dry

As a presenter, your job is to keep your audience interested in what you’re saying. Presentations which are too dry or dull will result in spectators who are barely listening and just counting the seconds until you finally stop talking. Try to present in a way which is interesting to your audience. A good method for this is to include story-telling elements (proven to be much more engaging that facts alone). If this method isn’t possible, then simply split up your presentation into sections and keep it short and punchy.

On the prospect of memorizing a speech by heart, Barnett warns that: “If something goes wrong, you run the risk of being less flexible when trying to recover your composure.” Despite this, there are benefits: “The advantage of memorizing a speech is that you can be very precise and ensure that you use suitable vocabulary.”

7. Bounce back from mistakes

Making a mistake might seem world-ending, but Barnett suggests it’s not the mistake itself that’s the issue:

“Mistakes aren’t the problem. It’s how you recover from them. I would start by taking a deep breath, then decide whether the audience noticed. If not, I would carry on. If the audience did notice. I would apologize, keep taking deep breaths and try to calmly rectify it. An audience often gains more by seeing a speaker recover well from a mistake than by listening to a speaker who is being too perfect and slick. Mistakes will only make you seem more human and a good recovery will bring you respect from the audience.”

Presentations with a question and answer section can be among the nerve-wracking, with the ever-present threat of not knowing the answer weighing over you. Barnett recommends not worrying too much about this:

“First of all, compliment the audience member on their excellent question, take a few deep breaths, buy some time and if you still can’t think of the answer tell them that you will go and research the issue straight after the presentation and forward the answer to all the delegates present.”

If this is a significant worry, consider your personal experiences. How many times did a teacher get the wrong answer at school? Or an actor miss his line in a play? Or a lecturer get stuck for a response to a question? It happens, people are human. If you deal with it well, no one will remember it.

This article was originally published in October 2017 . It was last updated in February 2021

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Amelia Hopkins is a writer for TopMBA, covering the latest news in business and business education. A graduate of the University of Leeds and Yorkshire native, she enjoys reading, travelling and talking incessantly about the countryside.

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What Are Soft Skills at Work?

What are soft skills examples, why are soft skills important, what soft skills do employers look for, how to improve your soft skills, including soft skills on a resume, what careers are right for you, based on your soft skills quiz, what are soft skills definition and examples.

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Forage puts students first. Our blog articles are written independently by our editorial team. They have not been paid for or sponsored by our partners. See our full  editorial guidelines .

Table of Contents

Soft skills are non-technical skills that describe how you work and interact with others. Unlike hard skills , they’re not necessarily something you’ll learn in a course, like data analytics or programming skills . Instead, they’re something you often build through experience. Soft skills reflect your communication style, work ethic , and work style. 

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Soft skills are interpersonal skills that describe how you work and interact with other people. These skills apply to all kinds of jobs and careers. For example, a professor and an investment manager can both be great communicators and have exceptional leadership skills, although how those skills translate into their professions can look quite different. No matter what field you’re interested in, these skills won’t just come in handy — they’ll be integral to your success at a company.

These skills generally fall into a few different categories:

• Communication skills
• Leadership skills
• Teamwork skills
• Problem-solving skills
• Critical thinking skills
• Time management skills

Communication Skills

Communication skills describe how you interact with the people you work with — from your boss to your friendly colleague to an important client. These skills are vital in getting your ideas across in a meeting, sharing status updates on a project, or effectively negotiating with a coworker about how to move forward. Some soft communication skills include:

• Public speaking
• Negotiation
• Conflict resolution
• Verbal communication
• Friendliness
• Empathetic listening

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Leadership Skills

Leadership skills are essential in all types of roles, even if you’re not directly managing someone. Adding these skills to a resume shows your potential employer that you’re confident in taking charge and leading by example. Some soft leadership skills include:

• Decision-making
• Adaptability
• Team-building
• Reliability

Teamwork Skills

No one works in a silo, even if they’re on a team of one. Teamwork skills are critical in any job to work harmoniously with stakeholders across projects, teams, and departments. These skills aren’t just about getting along, though. It’s also essential to know when to disagree and push back to get the best result. Some soft teamwork skills include:

• Rapport-building
• Respectfulness

Problem-Solving Skills

Companies hire people to help them solve problems and find the best solutions. No matter what role you’re taking on, you’ll need to think creatively, analytically, and logically to understand why problems are happening and how to solve the issue.

Whether it’s understanding why there’s not enough traffic to a website or how to raise students’ test scores, problems in the workplace are everywhere, and companies want new hires to bring fresh and innovative ways to solve them. Problem-solving skills include:

• Communication
• Creative thinking

Critical Thinking Skills

These skills help people identify the root cause of an issue. Critical thinkers analyze, research, identify, and think outside the box to make sense of information. At work, critical thinking helps people solve problems and challenge preconceived notions to help create the best path forward. Some soft critical thinking skills include:

• Analytical skills
• Questioning

Time Management Skills

Time management skills ensure employees perform their jobs efficiently and productively. While time management is essential to any role, these skills are critical in hybrid and remote work environments. Employers want to know they can trust employees to get things done even if they’re not physically in an office with them. Some time management skills include:

• Prioritization
• Detail-oriented

“We all have soft skills because they are part of who we are,” Sabrina Cortes, resume writer, says. “Top soft skills are teamwork, attention to detail , time management, organization, verbal and written communication, leadership, emotional intelligence, adaptability/flexibility, problem-solving/conflict resolution, and interpersonal skills. … Unfortunately, all too often, these personality traits are overlooked [by applicants]. But they play a role in each job out there.”

Of course, some skills are more applicable to specific jobs than others. Here are some examples of how soft skills can be applied to specific industries:

Soft skills are important because they make you a successful employee and a helpful team member — and they’re a crucial part of helping you land a job. 

“Employers want to see how well [potential employees] work with people and can think beyond their learning,” Joanne Rosen, Chief Operations Officer at Write Choice Resumes, explains.

Employers look for soft skills because these skills are helpful indicators of how successful a new hire will be. According to a Leadership IQ study, 89% of new hire failures were a result of poor soft skills, not a lack of technical failures. New hires were more likely to fail because they lacked soft skills like coachability, emotional intelligence, and motivation. Only 11% of new hire failures were a result of technical incompetence. 

This trend especially rings true for entry-level hires. Because entry-level applicants don’t have advanced technical skills yet, having good soft skills can set you apart from the competition.

>>MORE: Learn what careers are right for you based on your skillset with our career aptitude test .

Not all soft skills are created equal in employers’ eyes. According to a 2023 survey conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), the top skills employers look for are problem-solving skills and the ability to work in a team.  

“In my experience, it’s valuable [for students] to convey these three key soft skills: time management, communications, and customer service,” 5X Certified Resume Writer Virginia Franco says. “They are most relevant to entry-level success across diverse industries and job functions.”

Now you know — soft skills are a major way to stand out in the job search when you’re just starting out. But how do you start to improve yours?

Go Out of Your Way to Work With Others

If you’re like me, group projects are the bane of your academic career. Yet they’re a valuable way to build soft skills and experience that you can talk about in interviews. Proactively seek out group settings when working on projects, whether you’re in the classroom or for an extracurricular. Even if the project takes a little longer than it would have on your own, you’ll practice skills like problem-solving, collaboration, communication, and feedback. If you’re lucky, you’ll even build conflict resolution skills !

Practice Responsive Soft Skills

Soft skills aren’t just what you bring to the working world, but how you respond to it. Start with how you communicate with others. It’s not just about what you’re saying to another person, but how you listen and process what they’re saying back to you. 

Instead of just hearing the words someone is saying, make a conscious effort to truly understand their perspective, emotions, and underlying needs. Give them your full attention, maintain eye contact, and provide verbal and non-verbal cues to show that you are engaged in the conversation. By actively listening , you can develop a deeper understanding of others, build trust, and respond in a more thoughtful and empathetic manner.

Self-Reflect

Finally, the best way to work on your soft skills is to reflect on your progress. Soft skills can be a lot harder to measure than hard skills because they’re often unquantifiable. Instead, you can track your progress by thinking of examples of when you have (or haven’t!) used your soft skills when working on a school project, or in an internship , volunteer opportunity, part-time job, extracurricular, or any other experience you might talk about in an interview. Where are your gaps? Could you have been a more effective communicator? Were you a great negotiator? What can you do differently next time?

Because employers are looking for soft skills in the entry-level hiring process, it’s crucial for you not only to include them, but to know the right ones to include.

What Soft Skills Should I Include on My Resume?

One of the best ways to know what skills to include on your resume is to look at the job description. Just as you’d include hard skills based on a job description’s requirements, reading what a company is looking for can help determine what soft skills to include. 

>>Forage find: Unlike hard skills, the exact soft skills an employer is looking for might not be as spelled out. Look for clues on what kinds of workers they’re looking for — Team players? Independent? Self-motivated? — to understand what skills to include.

Is the company looking for someone who can handle communicating big ideas with customers and clients? Demonstrate those communication skills. Does it want someone strategic who can tackle big issues? Show that you’re an excellent problem-solver.

How to Include Soft Skills on a Resume

Resume experts agree that you don’t necessarily need a dedicated skills section to flaunt your soft skills on a resume.

“Soft skills need to be demonstrated, not listed,” Rosen says. “Example: Rescued at-risk account by communicating with the client about needs and creating innovative customer-facing solutions.”

By using the phrases “communicating” and” “creating innovative, customer-facing solutions,” the candidate shows off their communication skills and problem-solving skills.

>>MORE: How to Write a Resume

You can also use a professional summary to flex these skills.

“I like to mix soft skills with hard skills,” Wendi Weiner , attorney and resume expert, says. “You can include a sentence in your professional summary that speaks to some of your soft skills. Example: ‘Record of leading projects from concept to completion through strong problem solving, team building, and solid time management.’ The hard skill in this sentence is project management, and it’s leveraged by the soft skills of problem-solving, team building, and time management.”

If you do include a skills section on your resume, you can use the same section to list both hard and soft skills . It’s a great way to save on space while sharing a well-rounded picture of your abilities.

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What careers are right for you based on your skills? Take this quiz to find out. It’s completely free — you’ll just need to sign up to get your results!

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Soft Skills PPT | Presentation | PDF | Free Download

Soft Skills PPT | Presentation | PDF | Free Download : In this competitive world, both the hard skills and soft skills are required. Everyone can have the hard skills like a degree; proficiency in computer programming etc. but the success comes with the combination of hard skills and soft skills. At present, we can see that people are very interested in learning soft skills because every company or every firm wants their employees to be best at soft skills. Some of the soft skills are as below:

Counseling Skills PPT: Definition, Formats, Process and Types

Soft Skills PPT | Presentation | PDF

• Body language
• Communication
• Flexibility
• Time management
• Rate of speech
• Preparation of resume including self-introduction

Fig1: Skills Required for the Requirement of Job

Now, let us discuss few of them in detail and this will help the people in improving their soft skills and will improve the performance in interviews. They are as follows:

       1. Body language:

• It is a natural representation which is inbuilt within each and every living organism in this world. It is also known as the first language of the world. It is also called as a nonverbal communication.
• This language delivers its meaning with the help of the physical movements of our body parts which comprise of face expression, body posture, gestures, signs, eye contact, hand, and feet movement.
• It aids us when the verbal communication is difficult. It also determines the attitude of a person during a conversation.
• It is easy to express short notes or messages. A positive and an effective body language are always necessary to succeed in any part of the life.
• Researchers have shown that the effectiveness of communication depends up to 60% on the body language.

Social Media PPT Presentation Free

Important facts about body language:

• Always carry a pleasant smile in your face.
• Maintain a proper eye contact. You can pull a small trick here by using some coloured eye contacts to make your eyes shine. 
• When you have the chances of standing, stand up because people who stand always look powerful.
• Always use your arm movements during any kind of explanation, which will make you look confident.
• Always sit with your toes pointing out.
• Avoid hand to face movements during any conversation.
• Don’t cover or hide in a meeting or a group discussion.
• Avoid folded arms and crossed legs during speaking and listening.
• Avoid nail-biting, scratching head during any confused situation.
• Avoid grooming gestures when you are in public.
• It is an artificial representation which is not found common in this world. It is a tool which is used to communicate a message from one to one another of the same group.
• It is also called as verbal communication.
• Each language has its own set of rules in delivering the meaning from one to another.
• The grammar of each and every language has to be properly understood to master it.
• Researchers have estimated that there are up to 7000 different languages spoken around the world.

     Important facts about language:

• The grammar has to be properly used to during all the conversations.
• Always think before you talk.
• Use simple and short sentences to convey your messages.
• Avoid using complex and long sentences.
• Don’t use verbal and nonverbal fillers during the conversation.

Communication Skills PPT Presentation

  A modern example of body language or language:

• A person walking in a computer only with the help of a keyboard is called as a body language.
• The same person working with the help of a mouse and a keyboard is called as a language.
• So it is very clear that proper usage of both body language and the language is essential to succeed in every body’s day to day life.

Communication:

• It is a process through which a message is exchanged from the sender to the receiver and vice versa.
• The communication process will be complete once the receiver understands the message of the sender. If not, the communication process will remain incomplete.
• The proper usage of grammar helps in building an effective communication.
• It is a set of guidelines which tells us clearly how, when and where to use the words of any given language. Hence all these guidelines form into one shape called grammar,
• In today’s modern world grammar is defined as the Mother Board of all languages.
• It is a set of guidelines for any given language in the world.
• The grammar controls and designs the output of all kinds of communication of an individual.
• A language can be mastered only after mastering its grammar.

Teamwork , patience and time management:

• Teamwork, patience and time management is a very important quality because this helps in working with a group of people to achieve the goals of a firm or a company.

The rate of speech:

To communicate clearly, a rate of speech plays a vital role. Speaking fast does not mean that one speaks a good language and speaking slowly does not mean that one has less knowledge in the language. An average rate of speed should be maintained to deliver the message clearly. The average speed of a perfect speaker is around 130 to 160 words per minute.

Preparation of a resume and self-introduction:

• Well, a self introduction is one of the important and the first question which would be raised at any interview, irrespective of the field.
• The interviewer would judge your communication and the usage of grammar during the conversation.
• A resume is a document which represents an individual’s skills, education, work experience, background and other details.
• The two fundamentals that are involved in drafting a resume are as follows:
• Major or unchangeable fundament
• Minor or changeable fundament

Presentation Skills PPT: Planning, Effects and Techniques

Content of the PPT and PDF for Soft Skills PPT Presentation Seminar

• What are Soft skills?
• Importance of Soft Skills
• Communication skills
• Making Decisions
• Self Motivation
• Leadership Skills
• Team-Working Skills
• Creativity and Problem Solving Skills
• Time Management

 Here we are giving you Soft Skills PPT with PDF. All you need to do is just click on the download link and get it.

Soft Skills PPT Download

Soft Skills PDF Download

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Soft Skills - PowerPoint PPT Presentation

Soft Skills

#softskills are termed as interpersonal skills and personality traits that make a person successful in his job place. it only creates a positive and functional work environment but also makes the organization highly competitive. – powerpoint ppt presentation.

• Below is a list of some of the top soft skills which are highly in demand in every job sector. 
• Communication
• Leadership 
• Decision Making
• Time Management 
• Creativity and Problem Solving 
• Strong communication skills include verbal communication, non-verbal communication, and written communication. 
• Developing them will let you clearly and precisely express yourself, listen to your customers' grievances, and build long-lasting relationships with your clients. 
• Leadership as a soft skill means that a person vests in himself the ability to grow within the organization and lead other employees in the organization too. 
• It encompasses the ability to encourage peers, accommodates their needs, resolve conflicts, and cultivate the organizations culture in future employees. 
• Decision Making  
• Decision making as a soft skill infers making well-thought decisions after weighing its pros and cons. 
• It doesnt mean taking hasty decisions rather choose among the possible solutions to a problem either through an intuitive or reasoned process. 
• Possessing teamwork as a soft skill infers the ability to carry out the work in collaboration with others that not improves the quality of work but also results in prompt completion of the task. 
• Working in a team also develops the acumen knowing when to be a leader and when to be a listener. 
• Time Management   
• Inculcating time management skill states working productively in a smart way. 
• It lets you manage your time effectively so that all the important tasks get completed within the assigned deadline. 
• Highly valued by the employers, it also let the employees work under the pressure. 
• Employees with problem-solving skills tend to more reliant and self-dependent. 
• They possess the ability to analyze the causes of the unwanted situation, generate a set of alternative interventions to achieve the end goals, evaluate the best solutions, implement the best plan, and assess effectiveness. 
• Gone are those days when the employers just focus on honing the product knowledge of the employees. However, in todays competitive era, every organization takes initiative in offering soft skills training to the employees that not only benefits the organization but also results in the overall development of the employees.
• Below are the indispensable objectives of soft skills 
• Improves customer service 
• Mitigates the risk 
• Augments the employees' productivity 
• Encourages collaboration and accumulation of multiple ideas for the effective and efficient completion of the work. 
• Let you hone presentation skills, networking abilities, and etiquette awareness that can go a long way to help you win new clients and gain more work from existing ones. 
• The development of teamwork, communication, and time management will smoothly deliver results and help you gain confidence thus positively influencing your personal life
• Research conducted by Harvard University states that 85 percent of job success comes from having well-developed soft skills while only 15 percent of the jobs come from technical and hard skills. 
• The labor analytics firm Burning Glass analyzed millions of U.S. job postings and found that one in three skills requested in job postings is a soft skill. Even in the most technical career areas such as IT, Healthcare, and Engineering more than a quarter of all skill requirements are for soft skills. 
• In a 2017 paper, Harvard professor David Deming reported that jobs with high social-skill requirements are on the rise. 
• Like any other skills, soft skills too need to be developed among the new hires. It not only impacts the professional life but also positively influences the personal life too.
• As an employer or the content developer, develop an engaging soft skill course.
• Never impose rather create engagement so that learners automatically adopt this teaching. 
• Incorporate Learning Management System that enlists courses on communication, collaboration, problem-solving, creative thinking, etc. 

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Hard Skills vs. Soft Skills: What Are They and How Can You Show Them Off in Your Job Search?

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Hard Skills vs. Soft Skills: What Are They and How Can You Show Them Off in Your Job Search? was originally published on The Muse , a great place to research companies and careers. Click here to search for great jobs and companies near you.

There’s no way around it. In your job hunt, your skills matter. They tell potential employers not only what you can do, but how you can do it and even who you are. All your skills can generally be divided into two main buckets: hard skills and soft skills . And you’ll need both to land your next gig. But what’s the difference? And how do you show employers that you have the skills they’re looking for?

Hard Skills vs. Soft Skills

Hard skills are the skills that come from specific knowledge and are often tied to specific tasks or technologies, such as the mastery of a piece of software, the ability to drive a type of vehicle, or fluency in a foreign language. Hard skills are generally obtained through a combination of education and on-the-job training and are easier to prove you have and to quantify the results of.

Meanwhile, soft skills are less concrete, hence “soft.” “Soft skills speak to your temperament, personality, and qualities such as being reliable, resourceful, organized, or professional,” says Muse career coach Emily Liou , founder of Cultivitae , which helps professionals discover and land their dream jobs. Though you can definitely improve your soft skills, they’re not as easy to teach or learn, and they’re far harder to quantify the results of.

Compared to hard skills, you’re less likely to have gained your soft skills through formal education or on-the-job training. Though both of these things can help you build your soft skills, you’re not likely to see a class in “strong work ethic” or “being a good listener” in any course catalog.

They’re also less clear cut in whether you possess them. While there are varying levels of expertise in hard skills, when it gets down to it, you either know how to use a POS (point-of-sale) system or you don’t. But the definition of something like “good communicator” can not only change depending on who’s evaluating it, it contains much more nuance. For example, you might struggle with presentations to large groups but be clear and concise in one-on-one conversation. Or you might be a salesperson who’s great at communicating with clients and people within your team but struggle with explaining what you do to a non-sales colleague.

Some skills are on the border between soft and hard skills depending on how you use them (or will use them in your next job). For example, strong written communication skills can be soft skills if you’re primarily using them to clearly exchange information with coworkers or clients. But writing would be considered a hard skill if it’s a core responsibility of your job, such as if you’re a copywriter, editor, communications manager, or marketer, says Muse career coach Jennifer Smith , founder of Flourish Careers . This distinction as a hard skill becomes clearer if you attach it to what you’re adept at writing—like technical reports, proposals, or blog posts—since these are tasks that require a specific knowledge base, says Liou.

All job seekers (and job-havers) have to possess both soft and hard skills, but the exact combination you’ll need depends on the job and company. Remember, recruiters and hiring managers aren’t looking for someone who can complete tasks or someone they can see working with and spending a lot of time alongside: They’re looking for both.

Examples of Hard Skills

Hard skills typically include both technical skills like software programs, coding languages, or Search Engine Optimization, and task-oriented skills like forecasting, budgeting, or recruiting, Liou says. For example, if you’re an accountant, tax preparation is a hard skill and so is mastery of Intuit QuickBooks. If you’re a nurse, taking vitals and inserting IVs are hard skills, but so is the ability to use patient charting software. If you work in retail, knowing how to use a cash register is a hard skill. Some hard skills like Salesforce or the ability to analyze data enable you to do a wider set of tasks. The ability to speak a second language is also considered a hard skill.

Here are a few examples of hard skills employers might be looking for depending on what position they’re looking to fill:

• Calendaring
• Customer Relationship Management Software (such as Salesforce)
• Data Analysis
• Data Visualization
• Editing and Proofreading
• Expense Reporting
• Forklift Driving
• Google Analytics
• POS Systems
• Profit Forecasting
• Programming Languages (like HTML, JavaScript, C++, or Python)
• Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

How to Showcase Hard Skills in Your Job Search

When possible, employers prefer to hire candidates who have certain knowledge and are familiar with the systems and processes they’ll be using, especially at mid- to senior levels, Liou says. So you want to make sure that anyone who reads your application materials can quickly discern your important hard skills. What hard skills are important? That depends entirely on you and the job you’re applying to.

You should always tailor your resume and cover letter for the specific job you’re applying to—that is, edit your application materials so they show why you’re qualified for this job. So pull up the posting for a job you’d like to submit an application for and highlight any task or technology mentioned in the description of duties or under the list of requirements. Also highlight any specific techniques or processes you’d need to know to complete these tasks. Then take note of which of these hard skills you possess and include them in your application materials. (Be honest—don’t list skills you don’t have!)

You should add your hard skills to your resume skills section , of course, but also talk about how you’ve used them in the bullet points describing your past experiences. Write about what you accomplished with your abilities and quantify your bullet points whenever possible. For example, if you’re in a sales development role and looking to show off your Salesforce, prospecting, cold calling, and lead generation skills, you might say something like:

• Generated 100+ warm leads monthly through sales prospecting and cold calling and tracked using Salesforce, leading to an average of 30 meetings set per quarter

If you gained a hard skill through a formal education program, you might also list it in your education section, and if you have a relevant certification you should include that as well. Consider including especially important skills in a resume summary at the top of the page.

Recruiters and hiring managers will often search resumes for important hard skills using an applicant tracking system ( ATS ), so use the same phrasing as the job posting when describing your hard skills—don’t say “Asana” instead of “project management software” if a job description asks for experience using the latter.

And don’t call it a day with your resume. Talk about how you’ve used your relevant hard skills in your cover letter . Include them in your Linkedin profile (in your headline and about section along with your education, experience, certifications, and skills sections), Smith says. She also suggests working the most important hard skills for a given job into an elevator pitch you use during networking conversations or as an answer to common interview questions like “ What are your greatest strengths? ” or more specific questions like “Tell me about your experience using [software/tool].”

Examples of Soft Skills

Soft skills are traits, qualities, and habits “related to how someone approaches work,” Smith says. Are you adaptable, creative, self-motivated, and/or a good problem solver? A big subset of soft skills is interpersonal skills , or how you relate to the people around you. Are you collaborative, empathetic, and/or a good communicator?

Here are a few examples of soft skills employers might be looking for:

• Adaptability
• Collaboration
• Communication
• Conflict Management
• Critical Thinking/Problem Solving
• Emotional Intelligence and Empathy
• Organization
• Perceptiveness
• Perseverance
• Self-Awareness
• Self-Confidence
• Time Management

How to Showcase Soft Skills in Your Job Search

To figure out which soft skills are most important for a given position, you can start by highlighting any specific soft skills explicitly mentioned in the job description, just as you would for hard skills. Some employers will ask for “self starters” or “team players,” say that effective communication is a must, or otherwise indicate they’re looking for any number of soft skills.

But you should also take it a step further and think about what soft skills might make you better at doing this job based on the list of duties and the company description. If a job has a people management component, for instance, you’ll want to show off your leadership and communication skills as well as your ability to listen, delegate, and give constructive feedback. Or if a company is a startup or describes itself as a “fast-paced environment,” you might want to show off your adaptability and multitasking.

Because soft skills aren’t as tangible, “it’s important to show not tell,” Liou says. Demonstrate how you’ve used your soft skills through stories and accomplishments. Instead of saying “I’m a strong team player,” describe a specific time when you brought a team together to meet a common goal to really convince a hiring manager that this is true, Liou says. You might do this in a cover letter or in response to questions in an interview. For example Liou suggests saying something like this to demonstrate your empathy, emotional intelligence, leadership, and ability to motivate others:

“At [XYZ company] morale was low due to a huge merger and a mass layoff affecting our department the week before. To lift our spirits, I took the initiative to schedule a team lunch outing and wrote a positive note for each team member to share what I loved about working with them. The recipients found this to be such a great energy booster, it encouraged everyone else on the team to write notes to each individual. Despite the layoffs, our team was able to smile and communicate more closely.”

On a resume, you should incorporate your soft skills into the bullet points that describe related achievements. This will often mean you’re showing off your soft and hard skills in the same bullet points. For example, if you’re trying to demonstrate your management, collaboration, organization, and communication skills you might say:

• Managed six-person cross-functional team from ideation to execution of the “Your Story” digital campaign, assigning tasks in Airtable, communicating between departments, and tracking engagement and sales via Google Analytics and Salesforce, resulting in 20,000+ new Twitter followers and 500 subscriptions

Using the “show, don’t tell” guideline, Liou suggests incorporating soft skills into the rest of your resume—like your headline, summary, and bullets—over including them in your skills section. But you can think about what makes sense for your situation. Smith says that including soft skills in your resume’s skill section “is a great way to showcase your skills in a way that can match a job description and let the recruiter or hiring manager know you’re perfect for the job.” And though skills sections are more traditionally reserved for hard skills, “if you have space remaining, it doesn’t hurt, as it can help with the applicant tracking system’s keyword matches,” Liou says. You can also incorporate important soft skills into your LinkedIn profile.

Read More: The Non-Boring Way to Show Off Your Soft Skills in Your Job Search

You need both soft and hard skills to be a well-rounded employee. “For example, a software developer who knows how to code and can communicate across all levels of an organization” will be more effective at their job and more appealing to a company that’s hiring, Smith says. So, in your job hunt, make sure you’re demonstrating all the abilities, qualities, and knowledge that make you a great candidate.