Are you in the process of marketing your qualifications to employers? In the IT and engineering fields, it’s easy to focus all your energy on promoting your technical skills, certifications and industry knowledge. However, when it comes to truly impressing employers and showing you’re a well-rounded candidate, soft skills are just as important as hard skills. As you refine your application materials and gear up for interviews, here are three of the most important soft skills to highlight:
Communication. Strong communication is always essential for success on the job. Effective verbal and non-verbal communication - including active listening and emotional intelligence - will allow you to successfully navigate interpersonal relationships at work while maintaining a high level of professionalism in all your interactions. During interviews, your communication style will be noted by the interviewer, and can have a major influence on how you’re perceived not just as a qualified candidate, but as someone who can work well with others on a team.
Project management. Because most growing organizations have many moving parts, IT and engineering candidates who are skilled at effectively managing projects – including overseeing staff, delegating tasks and meeting deadlines – are best poised to excel in a fast-paced work environment and take on a multitude of responsibilities. Organizational skills are highly attractive to employers seeking candidates who will go beyond their core job descriptions and fulfill potential leadership roles in the future, ultimately being able to advance within the company. Demonstrating project management experience in previous roles will give you an edge over the competition, showing you have the expertise needed to lead a project from beginning to completion.
Adaptability. One of the most paramount skills of today’s workforce is by far adaptability. As employers continue to navigate lasting effects of the pandemic, employees who embrace change and are committed to shifting gears in fulfilling organizational goals will have the most long-term success. Adaptability in the workplace comes in many forms, including taking on new initiatives outside your job description; practicing conflict resolution; and being open to internal changes that may affect the nature of your position. During interviews, be sure to emphasize your ability and willingness to be adaptable, especially in the face of a crisis.
While technical skills will always be critical in the IT and engineering fields, a strong set of proven soft skills will set you apart from the competition and help you stand out in the talent pool.
Are you looking for a position that will allow you to grow in your industry?
Get in touch with Cullerton Group’s recruiting team and let us bring your IT or engineering career to the next level.
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