Traits of Successful Professionals
Employers seek job candidates who possess both hard skills and soft skills. Hard skills are the tangible, technical abilities learned through education and experience. Soft skills are the less tangible positive “people skills” that some individuals seem to come by naturally.
It is as important to highlight your soft skills on your resume as it is to list your education and experience. While it is crucial to be knowledgeable about technical side of your job, it is equally valuable to be able to interact with others, demonstrating possession of a high level of people skills and leadership potential.
Qualities needed to achieve career success:
- Technical skills
Whatever your field of endeavor, possessing exemplary technical skills necessary to do the job, and doing it well, will draw the attention of your superiors and potentially put you in line for promotions, raises and steady advancement to the upper levels of your chosen career.
- Communication skills
The ability to communicate skillfully, both verbally and in writing, is apt to keep you advancing on the pathway to career success. Being able to express your ideas and opinions clearly and concisely, learning other’s ideas through active listening are both components of good communication skills, which translates to leadership ability. Being able to carry on an intelligent conversation with anyone, superiors, coworkers, clients or customers, is apt to ensure greater job satisfaction and advancement opportunities.
- Professionalism
Displaying a professional manner at all times in speech, dress, and behavior is sure to impress the powers that be and increase your chances of being looked upon as an asset and key person in the organization. When the time comes for promotions, you name is apt to be at the top the list for consideration, due to possessing a consistent positive work ethic and professional attitude.
- Self-confidence
Believing in yourself and behaving with confidence is necessary to getting ahead in the business world. If you are tentative, timid or unsure, displaying a lack of self-esteem, you are not apt to be viewed by others as a candidate for advancement or leadership roles.
- Work ethic
Display an exemplary work ethic; be punctual and diligent in performing the duties and responsibilities of the job, focusing on delivering expectations in a timely manner. A positive work ethic is mandatory for achieving career success.
- Critical thinker
Employers are looking for individuals who can solve their business problems. Employees who view obstacles and setbacks as temporary inconveniences, as opposed to big, unsolvable problems. Individuals who view problems as opportunities are apt to find themselves in key positions, enjoying career success.
Qualities needed to achieve career success are not limited to those listed above. There are many other traits, such as determination, perseverance, self-motivation etc . . .
Whether you are composing aresume, anticipating ajob interview, beginning anew jobor wishing to move up the ladder in your current position, being mindful of the qualities needed to achieve success is sure to help you reach your ultimate career goals.
