Professional skills vs. Personal skills in your CV (soft skills and hardskills: what do employers value most?)
Navigating the balance between personal and professional skills in your CV
The quest to unlock the secret recipe for a job-winning CV often leaves many candidates perplexed. What is the perfect blend of unique abilities and attributes that will make employers want to hire you instantly? While each recruiter seeks certain skills from applicants for different positions, there are some universally sought-after abilities and traits. Though professional or "hard" skills continue to be vital, personal or "soft" skills have become increasingly desirable in today's job market. Let's delve into the nuances of these two skill sets.
The interplay of hard and soft skills
The ideal job candidate possesses a balanced combination of two distinct skill sets: hard skills and soft skills.
Hard skills are job-specific and industry-centric. They are typically acquired through formal education, certification programs, training tools, or hands-on job experience. Examples of hard skills include proficiency in:
- Computer software
- Foreign languages
- Operation of specific machines or devices
Contrastingly, soft skills are universally applicable across various jobs. Often referred to as "people skills," these encompass proficiencies such as:
- Communication
- Leadership
- Customer service
- Time management
- Problem-solving
While hard skills are teachable, soft skills are usually more challenging to master, making them highly valued by employers. Often, your soft skills can amplify your hard skills. For instance, a detail-oriented software developer with excellent coding skills can identify and rectify errors in code more effectively.
As a job seeker, it's crucial to showcase a balanced mix of hard and soft skills. Understanding the interplay between the two can help you position yourself effectively.
Identifying your best skills
If you're unsure about the skills you should highlight, reflect on your past experiences. Here are some ways to evaluate the best skills to include in your CV:
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Reflect on your accomplishments: Consider instances when you've been commended for achieving a goal or excelling in a certain area. The skills that contributed to these successes are worth highlighting.
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Consult past colleagues or classmates: People who have worked closely with you can often identify strengths that you might overlook.
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Speak with industry professionals: If you're unsure about what skills a potential employer might value, consult a professional in your target field.
However, only include skills on your CV that you're confident about. If a job listing mentions a skill you're still developing, be prepared to discuss this during the interview process.
Essential personal skills for your CV
We've compiled a list of key personal skills highly valued in today's job market. Here are some examples, along with sample phrasing for each:
- Professionalism
- Honesty and Integrity
- Adaptability
- Problem-solving
- Dependability
- Loyalty
- Positive Attitude
- Self-Confidence
- Self-Motivation
- Willingness to Learn
- Leadership
- Multicultural Sensitivity
- Planning and Organization
- Teamwork
Key professional skills for your CV
It's equally important to highlight your professional skills. Consider the technologies and tools you use daily and have used in the past. Examples might include Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, language proficiency, or specific programming abilities.
The final verdict
Understanding the difference between personal and professional skills can help you create a powerful CV. These abilities are vital tools that you can learn, develop, enhance, and maintain throughout your life. By striking the right balance, you can significantly increase your chances of landing your dream job.
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