Soft skills can make the difference between being hired and being passed over when technical skills are otherwise comparable. However, the kinds of soft skills employers value tend to change with the current business environment. The soft skills hiring managers were looking for five years ago are no longer the priority in many cases. Since the pandemic, many business practices have evolved and changed, and businesses are looking for new soft skills to keep up with these changes. Here are the top soft skills employers want in 2023.
Creativity and Innovation
The business world has seen rapid changes in the past few years, and managers have quickly seen the value of having employees who can utilize creative problem-solving and innovation to keep up with the latest developments. If you struggle to adapt to change, you might struggle to thrive in modern business environments. As companies strive to remain competitive, they are looking for bright and creative people who can provide innovative solutions and drive improvement.
Versatile Communication
Being able to communicate in a variety of different contexts is crucial. Being adept at face-to-face communication and oral presentations is no longer sufficient with hybrid teams and remote working environments. Employees need to be able to communicate clearly and professionally via email, instant messaging, video conferencing, and more to keep up with the demands of the modern workplace.
Time Management
In the era of quiet quitting, employers need employees who can manage their time well and maximize productivity. If you struggle to meet deadlines and only do the bare minimum required, businesses aren’t going to be impressed with your performance. Being adept at time management and providing quality work during your shift is critical for success and advancement.
Digital Adaptability
As every industry relies more and more on technology, having digitally adaptable employees is now critical to keep the business running. Employees who balk at new software or using digital tools can slow down progress and require time-consuming training to keep up with the team. Digitally savvy employees who pick up new technologies quickly are a real asset for advancing teams.
If you struggle with these things, take some professional development time this year to foster these soft skills. The modern workforce has unique circumstances and requires a unique skill set to keep up and continue driving businesses forward in spite of new challenges.