This informative essay is written for college students, or anyone wanting improve their marketability. The example essay also discusses, what we call “Soft skills” and they are crucial in today’s professional world, yet many potential hires have not developed them sufficiently. The presented essay gives four excellent suggestions for anyone wanting to interact more effectively in the workplace.
What skills do today’s young college graduates still lack after graduation? One generally assumes the recent graduate has passed a series of courses, instilling a proficiency in paper writing, math, science, and the social sciences.
When asked to identify deficits in their potential hire pool, employers do not mention any of these academic subjects or skills They indicate, rather, that social skills the ability to comport oneself appropriately in a professional situation, are the biggest obstacle they see when trying to hire a new professional.
A recent Time magazine article, citing two separate studies, explained the issue this way:
“…(N)early, 1 in 5 employers worldwide can’t fill positions because they can’t find people with soft skills. Specifically, companies say candidates are lacking in motivation, interpersonal drills, appearance, punctuality and flexibility.”
Professional life is very competitive, and having social skills is crucial. If an employer perceives a candidate as lacking social grace, that candidate will not get the job. Unfortunately, unsavory habits usually hinder those who are unaware of them. This means that many people are not hired for reasons they do not understand, and may never figure out.
“Soft” or Social Skills
The term “soft skills” refers to the ability to be appropriately professional in dress and behavior. The issue is so significant that many colleges and universities now require students in programs such as business to attend sponsored social events for which etiquette and formal dress is the organizing theme. The number of programs designed to address the issue illustrate how pervasively it is recognized as a problem. Although programs are often marketed as “business” or “office” etiquette, they are offered to students of all majors-from nursing to engineering.
Ways to Enhance Soft Skills
Internships paid or unpaid, are a great way to observe how professionals behave and dress in the workplace. Most interns work closely with an administrator or officer, giving them opportunities to ask questions and receive advice that one might not feel appropriate after securing a permanent company position.
Volunteer in your local community. Volunteering will give you a great chance to interface with all kinds of people, and gain confidence. Moreover, it demonstrates that you have concerns and interests beyond those that only benefit yourself.
Enroll in a course aimed at preparing young professionals for a career. These might be called “charm classes” “business etiquette” training, “soft skill” courses or “finishing schools” Students can check with their college to see if there are offerings. Otherwise, a local Chamber of Commerce might be a good resource to consult.
Develop a portfolio of soft skills, highlighting your ability to collaborate and work effectively with others When you do have the opportunity to work with others, even if it’s for a college class project, document your experienced in a portfolio that you can later draw from. Perhaps you learned something important during your advertising group project. Note those observations down, and discuss it with others so that you are able to communicate your new knowledge.
Regardless of your course of action, remember that social skills must be developed over time and practiced. It’s best to start well before graduation day. Feel free to bookmark this informative essay to further establish your marketability and use the WriteMyPaperForme.com essay service to help spring your future into action!