Soft Skills

Soft skills are the personal attributes you need to succeed in the workplace. These are often related to how you work with others – in other words, these are people skills. Soft skills are different from hard skills, which are directly relevant to the job you are applying for. These are often more quantifiable, and easier to learn. A hard skill for a carpenter, for example, might be the ability to operate a power saw or use framing squares.

Regardless of the job you're applying for, you need at least some soft skills. Employers want employees who are able to effectively interact with others. These skills are also very hard to teach, so employers want to know that job candidates already have these skills.

Below is a list of six important soft skills that most employers look for in employees. It includes lists of related soft skills that employers also tend to seek in job applicants. Develop these skills and emphasize them in job applications, resumes, cover letters, and interviews. The closer a match your credentials are to what the employer is looking for, the better your chances of getting hired.