Soft Skills to Demonstrate in the Job Interview

Do you think "soft skills" don't matter? It's just about having all the right KSA's? (Knowledge, Skills and Abilities)If you can do the job then you should have the job,, right? Wrong.

Yahoo Hot Jobs has compiled a list of six soft skills that employers are looking for in the job interview.

-Leadership/Team Building. These job skills are not just for supervisors but for candidates who want to demonstrate an interest in that career direction.

-Team Player. This just seems so overstated but it is true. Team players make the office work and move forward. Silos and mavericks can kill a positive workplace culture.

-Goal-Oriented Self-Starter. The article states, "while employers don't necessarily want loose canons or mavericks, they do appreciate people who don't need to be told what to do and can set their own tasks and follow through."

-Excellent Communicator. This one is a no brainer. Or should be. No matter what the task. Communication skills - verbal, written and non-verbal are important. The article states, "the ability to write a coherent memo or email, give clear verbal instructions, and help meetings run smoothly -- or, at least, not sabotage meetings -- will probably be needed." Excellent communication skills go along with understanding of office etiquette.

-Flexibility/Multi-Tasking Ability. Think about being able to "walk and chew gum" at the same time," as the saying goes. Especially in tight economic times, candidates must come with the ability to bring value beyond their specific job description.

-Sense of Humor. This just makes the day go faster. The article quotes author of 'Career Wisdom", John McKee who says, "unless you're applying to Comedy Central, you don't have to make them double up laughing." Getting folks to crack a smile ever so often, can keep you sane.

To succeed in the job interview, prepare to sell your soft skills.

Source - 6 Soft Skills That Could Land you the Job