By Jaime Gardner, Executive Vice President, Novitas Communications
As business leaders, one of the biggest challenges we face is hiring and managing employees. In today’s world, as our young people graduate college and move into the workforce, they are using technology more than ever – and as we evaluate their tech and software expertise, one thing that gets lost in the mix of things is screening for soft skills. So, what are the most underrated skills in business today?
Primarily, basic customer service. Not everyone is a people person, and being personable and kind comes easier for some of us than others. On top of that, “entry level” jobs today are different than 30 years ago. Not every teenager works in a restaurant, as a lifeguard or store clerk. However, skills that are fundamental in those jobs are still some of the most basic needs in any work environment – being able to work well with others, responding to client inquiries in a polite and respectful way, and rolling with whatever comes at you. “Customer service” can apply to anything and everything you do in the workforce.
Showing up. This means not only coming to work on time every day, but also being invested in your work and owning your work product. Taking responsibility for stepping up when things need to be done, and seeing all processes through to the end. Stepping up and stepping in when someone is out of the office.
Being flexible. In our office, every day can look a little different. Depending on the projects that we’re working on at any given time, our employees could be writing press releases, moderating social media, and responding to phone calls and email – all within the same 20 minute period. We have down time, but often, we’re trying to be proactive for clients while also reacting or responding to new inquiries or requests that come our way. Flexibility and the capacity to roll with the punches is vital.
Detail oriented/conscientious. This is one of those skills that I’ve always listed on my resume or highlighted in a cover letter – and somehow I think today, it gets undervalued or overlooked. We need employees who pay attention to the small things, and help us keep up with both the daily crises of the moment, but also the big picture deliverables that we don’t want falling through the cracks.
Perseverance. When we have six clients who all need deliverables at the same time, we’re often pulled in all directions and running around with our hair on fire. I often advise people to just take one thing at a time and work down your list – even as your list might be growing all the time. Having the ability to roll through that daily grind is necessary in our fast-paced work environment.
Friends, we know that everyone is busy. Young people today are no different. Some of these skills might seem basic to some of us – but sometimes, circling back to basics is the best way to re-align our mindset to what we really need.
