A couple of days ago, I heard some people arguing. Most of what they said was indistinguishable, the only line I captured was something one of the more aggrieved parties bellowed at the other. He said “it’s 2021, get yourself some soft skills”
How familiar are you with the concept of soft skills, is it something you’re working on, something you care less about or are you clueless as to what I am even talking about?
whether you’re the former, the latter, or somewhere in between, I have got you covered.
In Recent times, Soft skills have become more in-demand!! Things like communication, time management, emotional intelligence have become much more important to employers and fellow humans.
Interestingly these skills are not taught in schools, as a matter of fact, little or no mention is made of them anywhere neither at work nor in everyday situations, despite all of these obvious reasons why it’s excusable for people not to have these skills, there’s an expectation from all and sundry that every grown-up should equip himself with some of these
So what the heck are soft skills by the way??
Soft skills are personal skills — They may come naturally to you, and they can also be learned through practice and repetition they are a combination of people skills, social skills, communication skills, character or personality traits, attitudes, mindsets, career attributes, that make you a good business owner and make it a lot easier to get along with other people.
Soft skills vs hard skills, what’s the difference?
People often wonder what the difference between soft skills and hard skills really are.
While you’re less likely to have gained your soft skills through formal education, hard skills are skills that can be learned, like writing and coding they are also measurable and quantifiable.
Soft skills on the other hand are personality traits, like being a good listener, being flexible and adaptable, leadership traits, etc
Active Listening
Have you ever met someone who seemed to have the ability to listen carefully and deliberately whenever he or she is involved in a conversation? That’s a skill that everyone needs to learn and develop. Active Listening is more than just listening, it is the ability to listen and pick up cues, to understand what is being said and what is being implied in conversations and meetings. With active listening skills, you should be able to pick up nonverbal cues. This comes with practice. Always remember that effective communication whether with friends or colleagues involves both speaking and listening. So learn to listen actively, this is so important. You can practice by avoiding interruptions when you listen, ask deeper questions to understand. This skill fosters trust and loyalty in business and amongst friends.
Emotional Intelligence
This revolves around being able to manage your emotions, empathize with people around you. To be a good leader and also relate effectively with others, you need to have your emotions under control, you also need to recognize the emotions of others. To be able to manage and master them. You can start by asking yourself, What are my emotional strengths? What are my weaknesses? How does my current mood affect my thoughts and decision-making?
Can I work under pressure? Can I tolerate people who have different opinions and beliefs?
Time Management
we have learned over and over again about the value of time and how important it is to be able to manage your time effectively, and to function at your best at all times. In recent times, time management has gone from just being a mere concept to a highly sought-after skill. People with good time management skills make great leaders and team players. To live your best life, you need to be able to manage your time well. Practice every day by creating a timetable for yourself and making sure you keep to it. With time you’ll develop the ability to follow through.
Problem-solving skills
The world is in constant need of people who can solve problems, whether it’s problems at work or amongst friends. A problem solver is a lifesaver, this includes being able to handle difficult situations, and to achieve this you would need to be analytical and creative, flexible and innovative. With problem-solving skills, you can thrive in virtually any environment.
Growth mindset
To thrive in 2021, you’ll need to develop a growth mindset. A lot of people are so set in their ways and therefore completely averse to change and development. A growth mindset entails being willing to grow and improve, seeing challenges and obstacles as stepping stones rather than roadblocks believing that learning and intelligence can grow with time and experience.
Communication skills
Relationships thrive on effective communication, a relationship without an effective means of communication won’t last very long. In every human relationship, there would always be a need to send and receive information, this is why it is important to be able to communicate effectively, this soft skill makes the exchange of information, thoughts, and opinions seamless.
Flexibility and adaptability
one of man’s biggest gifts is his ability to adapt, survive and thrive in any environment that he finds himself in. This skill is even more important these days. The world is constantly changing, rules and regulations pop up every day, there are changes at work, in life and in our relationships with others, therefore, one must be receptive to change, and also keep an open mind.
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