What is a soft skill?

Soft skills are character traits and interpersonal skills that characterize a person's relationships with other people. In the workplace, soft skills are considered to be a complement to hard skills, which refer to a person's knowledge and occupational skills.

What is a Hard Skill?

A hard skill is related to specific technical knowledge and training, which is measured by a test. It doesn't matter what job they are used for, these skills can be learned through formal education or on-the-job training. In contrast, soft skills are driven by characteristics such as leadership, communication, or time management. Soft skill is not a specific skill but is one that applies to all occupations.

 In most jobs, both types of skills are required to succeed and advance. When it comes to hiring new employees, studies indicate soft skills are more important than hard skills.

Examples of soft skills include communication, adaptability, leadership, teamwork, time management, emotional intelligence, organizational ability, and collaboration 

Examples of hard skills include technical skills, computer skills, Microsoft office skills, analytical skills, marketing skills, presentation skills, management skills, and project management skills.

Difference between hard skills and soft skills?

Hard skills are something which you learn to adapt to a new career. example: Accounting, Engineering, Design, etc.

Soft skills are something that you learn or adapt from. the very childhood example communication, attitude, mental mindset, flexibility, etc

Out of the two hard skills can be learned through sheer will and dedication, but soft skills are a bit tricky as it is ingrained in our bio-physiology, but it can be learned through proper guidance, training and ability to observe from a distance.

 During the interview process, highlight your skills

During an interview, you will demonstrate both your soft skills and your hard skills.

A few examples of key soft skills are:

• Showing up early (punctuality) to the interview

• Keeping eye contact (active listening)

• Communicating clearly when prompted (effective communication)

• Answering questions honestly about your resume and experience (integrity)

• Active listening (asking for follow-up)

A few examples of key soft skills are hard skills are:

• Describe your experience and training

• Offering a portfolio (digital or physical)

• Answering technical questions effectively

• Follow-up questions about the work

• Working effectively through skills tests (if required)

 How to list skills on your resume 

• .Include your most impressive skills in your resume summary-Highlight your best relevant skills in your resume summary. Recruiters can also find evidence of your skills in the experience section of your resume.

• You can prove you have experience using your skills in real-world situations by providing specific examples of how you applied them in previous roles. When you demonstrate your skills in your cover letter, you stand out as genuinely qualified.

Finally, Are soft skills more important than hard skills? As a job seeker and a career builder, soft skills are crucial. Soft skills are just as important as hard skills to achieve a positive work environment. For this reason, employers often seek individuals who possess proven soft and hard skills.