In today’s blog, we’re talking about soft skills and the important part they have in creating well-rounded, career ready students. Soft skills are character traits. They are the attitudes and behaviors employers look for in an applicant. Involvement in student programming boards and other organizations on campus helps develop these skills. They are just as important as the technical skills we teach students everyday. When it comes to applying for a job, soft skills are what make one applicant stand out from the rest.

Soft skills include interpersonal skills such as collaboration, communication, and leadership. But, also consist of more analytical skills like problem solving and a goal oriented mind-set. Below are 5 soft skills that every student needs as they head out into the workplace.

Critical Thinking

Critical thinking is the ability to analyze issues, make decisions, and overcome problems. A good critical thinker uses knowledge, facts, and data to create original and inventive ideas and thoughts. This is also known as problem solving.

Teamwork

Building collaborative relationships with peers and co-workers makes it possible for your group achieve a common goal. A person with good teamwork skills should be able to work with a diverse group of people inclusive of all cultures, races, ages, genders, religions, lifestyles, and viewpoints. The ability to negotiate and manage conflict is a key part to maintaining a healthy and productive organization.

Career Management

You should be able to identify and articulate your skills, strengths, knowledge, and experiences that is relevant to the position.  This includes career goals, and the capacity to identify areas necessary for professional growth. Career-minded individuals have the faculty to self-advocate and pursue opportunities with in the workplace.

Digital Technologies

Students entering the workforce should be able to leverage existing digital technologies to solve problems, complete tasks, and accomplish goals. Demonstrating effective adaptability to new and emerging technologies is an important part of keeping an organization up to date.

Leadership

A good leader leverages the strengths of others to achieve common goals. They use interpersonal skills to coach and develop others. Leadership skills includes using empathetic skills to guide and motivate; and organize, prioritize, and delegate work.

Neon Entertainment has a variety of speakers that incorporate these skills into their lectures. Brian Miller is world-renowned speaker and author. In his lecture, How to Magically Connect with Anyone, Brian teaches how to make better and more meaningful connections. His other program, The Magic of Networking, is a workshop that will transform participant’s conversation skills. In the lecture, The DNA of Leadership, Speaker Mike Fritz discusses 10 elements that exist in every leader. For more information on leadership programs, call your Neon Agent at 1-800-993-NEON, or email info@neon-entertainment.com.