Skills for the modern day woker

For those of you/us looking to either enter the workforce for the first time, or perhaps change fields. I have researched some of the most crucial work skills needed today. This list may seem pretty simple, and it is, but you’d be amazed at what some just don’t know and haven’t been taught yet!

• Communication
• Problem-solving
• Digital Literacy
• Adaptability
• Decision Making
• Public Speaking
• Conflict Resolution
• Creativity
• Global Awareness

Pretty simple, right? Notice, none of these are hard skills! Meaning, it’s not job-specific. All of these can and should be used at any job, most are even crucial for a personal relationship. These were not listed in any specific order. Let’s discuss.

Communication: No matter what job, or relationship, communication is always essential. Whether you’re at the top of the “pyramid” or not, you will always have someone to speak with. Bosses, subordinates, customers, distributors. It won’t matter who they are or what their role is, the more articulate you can be the better the experience and outcome will be!

Problem-Solving: Pretty self-explanatory. Life will always toss you problems in some way shape or form. The ability to detach, remain objective, see the issue for what it is, and come to a quick and effective resolution will be a great asset.

Digital Literacy: This one is a little more job-specific, but it is still important to know the basics. Know how to pull up any specific platform, and perform a search. Know what document is preferred for papers or reports. Send and organize emails. Nothing complicated, but the more in-depth you get the more opportunities you’ll have.

Adaptability: This is one of the most important in my mind. When things come at you, you have to be able to adapt to the situation. Schedule changes, being short on shift, cutbacks, etc. It’s temporary, and you just need to be able to handle the situation while it exists.

Decision Making: I can’t begin to tell you how annoying this is. How many people have this issue? What does it boil down to, in my opinion? Nobody wants to take responsibility and wants to pass the buck. They’re so worried it’ll be the wrong decision and are afraid to be ridiculed. I can’t tell you how to get past this, everyone has to figure out their thing.

Public Speaking: This doesn’t just apply to PR specialists or preachers. Don’t think of it as speaking in front of a large audience. You’re looking for proper posture, articulation, projection (if need be), and preparedness.

Conflict Resolution: Here, you want to ensure someone can maintain a cool head. I know it’s complicated for a lot of people, but not allowing yourself to get overwhelmed by the situation is imperative.

Creativity: Again, not limited to art, music, or film. Especially if you’re changing fields, you don’t want to “rock the boat”, but sometimes an outside perspective can be very welcoming. Just make sure the presentation isn’t too forward.

Global Awareness: It’s always good to know what’s going on not just locally but as far put as possible. Keeping up to date with current events keeps you in the loop, and allows for conversation starters in awkward silences. What you’d like to do is ensure you’re also keeping up with YOUR field locally, nationally, and internationally if applicable.

These have been some of the most important “soft skills” that have assisted me. I still have room for improvement though just as well all do. What do you think, what has helped you the most in your field or switching fields? Id like to hear your thoughts!