Laura Thorburn, M.S., CCC-SLP
With all the conversation centered on AI, it might feel like almost every job these days could be done by a robot or computer. When ChatGPT can write your resume, and a computer program can complete complicated tax forms, how can an actual human remain a viable candidate for employment?
The good news is that you can develop skills that will never be replaced by a computer. These are “soft skills.” While “hard skills” include your formal education, technical skills, and job proficiency, they are complemented by your soft skills–your communication style, interpersonal skills, and personal qualities. Soft skills are non-technical, intangible skills that relate to how you interact with others and navigate your work environment.
Soft skills are important. They can enhance your overall job performance and career growth. They are highly valued by employers since they contribute to a positive work environment, effective teamwork, and strong relationships with colleagues, clients, and customers. And with some focus and practice, you can develop them for success on the job.
The top 10 soft skills valued in the workplace
The following are the top 10 soft skills that employers look for. Mastering these will put you at the top of every employer’s list.
1 Creativity
Although AI can create a picture or song, someone has to input the information first. Being able to innovate, generate a new idea, or provide a unique perspective is a skill that is human alone and highly sought after in business.
2 Communication
ChatGPT can formulate responses. However, a human is needed to understand their audience and determine the best way to communicate an idea. A good communicator is able to listen actively, express ideas clearly, and convey information confidently and effectively.
3 Conflict resolution
Although artificial intelligence won’t be offended or start an argument, humans can find themselves in disagreements. Disagreements are healthy in the workplace when they’re handled in a constructive and respectful manner. Therefore, mastering your conflict resolution skills will increase your value on teams in your organization.
4 Collaboration
AI can provide helpful information, but humans are tribal. We depend on each other. Improving your capacity to work with others, contribute to a team, and build positive relationships puts you at an advantage in any job.
5 Problem-solving
Computers can solve complex problems. But when information is input incorrectly, there is a complete breakdown. To reach an accurate solution, we need human skills to identify and resolve problems, think critically, and make sound decisions.
6 Leadership
AI can do wonders with listing tasks and assigning deadlines. Only a human can truly motivate others. Improving your ability to guide others, delegate tasks to the right individuals, and inspire a team toward achieving goals can be pivotal to your professional development.
7 Adaptability
If you’ve been lying around the pool on a hot day, you might realize that your smartphone will stop working completely because it overheated. Fortunately, humans can learn to be open to change, quickly adjust to new circumstances, and embrace new processes. Learning to be adaptable will increase your employability.
8 Time management
A computer can complete tasks in a timely manner when assigned to do so. In the same way, improving your skill to efficiently organize and prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and manage your time is key to ensure your value at the company.
9 Emotional Intelligence
AI doesn’t have feelings, but people do. Working with other people means working with lots of different personalities and emotions. Developing awareness and management of your emotions, as well as understanding and empathizing with the emotions of others, are powerful and valuable skills to have.
10 Flexibility
Once a computer has been programmed, it can’t be changed without outside intervention. An employee should be adaptable and willing to take on different roles or responsibilities as needed. It’s also important to be receptive to feedback and make necessary adjustments to keep growing in your job.
How can you develop your soft skills?
Just like you studied in school or on the job to learn your technical skills, you have to practice to master the essential soft skills. Take some time to sit down with the above list and think about where you stand in each area. Create your personal goal list and determine how you can improve your performance. As you progress in your career, these skills will become even more critical.
An experienced speech therapist can help you develop the professional skills needed to succeed at work. Speech therapy can help you:
Grow your soft skills
Improve the way you communicate at work
Develop your storytelling skills
Conquer a fear of public speaking
Learn some strategies to improve your memory and organization
Your speech therapist will help you set personalized goals, understand your challenges, and shift your mindset. They’ll teach you techniques to help you improve the way you interact with others. You’ll receive an individualized plan of care that includes weekly home practice activities. And if you choose to have online speech therapy, that’s one less commute in your schedule. You’ll meet with your therapist via video chat at a day and time that works for you.
At Expressable, we give you an opportunity to work on your cognitive-communication skills and how they relate to a variety of situations. If you want to improve and maintain your employability, reach out to let us help you achieve those goals.
