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Talking and promoting your skills and experience in an interview is the most important part. However, it is not the only thing that matters. You probably have the right qualifications and experience, but chances are, if you don't manage to impress the interviewer with your soft skills, you won't get the job.
Think of it this way. Many candidates are applying for the same job. Almost all of them have approximately the same level of skills. So, while your skillset might get you through the door to an interview, your soft skills will decide whether you get the role or not. It could give you the upper edge over other applicants.
Soft skills are highly in demand. This is because they help you work better and more closely with clients and other departments.
Here are four soft skills you should focus on developing to help you get a job:
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Be enthusiastic and show it!
That's right - any employer would prefer an employee who actually wants to work in the company. Do not look bored or uninterested in the job. Don't be afraid to show your passion. You may not appeal to the interviewer if you seem to be there to improve their career or salary.
Show your keenness by arriving early, asking questions and showing the right attitude.
Understand the company's culture and state how you would be a good fit. Show the interviewer you are dependable and can adapt well.
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Communicate well.
Communication is crucial. It doesn't only mean having a good command of the language. It means being able to get your points across well. It means understanding what is asked of you and being able to answer. A good communicator is also an avid listener. Diplomacy, clarity and confidence are three crucial points. Every company looks for someone who is not only good at their jobs but can work well with others as a team.
A good idea would be to pre-prepare answers to commonly asked questions. This will help you answer better.
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Talk about your Problem Solving Skills
Before you walk into an interview, list down situations of how you tackled a problem. Show the interviewer you are an ideal candidate because of how well you deal with any issue. The examples must highlight your approach to the problems. Talk about a situation where you solved a problem independently as well as with your team. Also, mention how your decision impacted the situation. An applicant who can easily overcome a problem using innovative or critical thinking will definitely impress.
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Show off your Leadership or Management skills.
An ideal candidate will contribute to meetings, build good business relationships and take the initiative. It is essential to emphasise your ability to work as a team. Proving that you have an inclusive approach and are responsible will help. Having the right soft skills, technical skills, and experience together will make you an ideal candidate. Do you want to know more about what soft skills you can use and how to use them? Check out this free online course at Glow & Lovely Careers (formerly known as Fair & Lovely Career Foundation).