Developing Your Soft Skills

Being able to type 80 words per minute or knowing how to put together a PowerPoint presentation are valuable skills to have, but technical abilities aren’t the only ones you need to be concerned about. Interpersonal, or “soft,” skills are equally valuable in today’s workplace. Demonstrating qualities such as empathy, humor and tact are critical whether you’re meeting with a potential client or explaining to your manager why the company should consider having a blog on its website. Here are some tips for developing the less-technical aspects of your skill set:

Be appreciative. Always be willing to provide praise or words of encouragement to others. Thank coworkers who help you complete a project or who simply do something thoughtful for you. And avoid taking sole credit: For instance, did you work on a high-profile project in which a coworker frequently pitched in? Acknowledge his or her contributions to your manager and colleagues.

Be enthusiastic. Which type of person would you most like to work with: someone who clearly loves her job and encourages others to excel or an individual who constantly complains about his responsibilities? Keep this in mind when evaluating your own work style. An upbeat attitude will not only improve your relationships with other team members, but it also can help as you pursue future opportunities.

Be a team player. Is a colleague working on two major initiatives that must be completed by next week? Offer to help out if you’re not overloaded yourself. Assisting overwhelmed coworkers builds camaraderie – and also makes it more likely they will help you the next time you’re buried in work.

Heard in the Lunchroom^SM is provided by Robert Half, the world’s largest specialized staffing firm and a leading authority on workplace and management trends.  For more information, visit www.rhi.com.