The job market is competitive and there are many graduates out there with the same qualifications.  So how will you stand out and have a successful career?

Many people underestimate the importance of soft skills in their career but these skills are an increasingly important focus for hiring managers and can mean the difference between career success or career failure.

Soft skills can be defined as:  “Desirable qualities for certain forms of employment that do not depend on acquired knowledge: they include common sense, the ability to deal with people, and a positive flexible attitude”

Here are three top soft skills you should endeavour to foster:

Positive Attitude

• Shows you are flexible, accommodating and open
• Willing to give anything a go and help out
• That you can get along with others and create positive working relationships

Initiative

• Shows you are interested and passionate
• You can work independently
• Ability to come up with innovative ideas
• Hard working and keen

Problem Solving

• Shows that you are a critical thinker
• Can work under pressure
• Think on your own
• That you care and you are responsible
• Shows potential for growth

If you keep these three soft skills in mind you’ll increase your opportunities for career success. Highlight your soft skills in your CV, in an interview and on the job!

If you are unsure how to include soft skills into your CV then speak to one of our mentors today who will be able to assist you in developing your CV ready for interview success.