Welcome to the new section of the Soft Skills Builder blog:
YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS!
YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS!
The 2014 U.S. Census reported there are over 43 million young people between the ages of 15-24 in the U.S. Some are leaving high school for college or the work world; some have disabilities, either physical or cognitive; some are under the court’s supervision, either in prison or on probation or parole; some are veterans who have returned from a structured military environment; and some have addiction or mental health issues. While circumstances vary, most youth and young adults have one thing in common: they are in the midst of some type of transition. This section of the blog is dedicated to youth who are transitioning to the world of work.
We will share articles and stories about youth in transition, and discuss the soft skills needed to be successful. Resources will be provided that will help you understand and develop the workplace soft skills needed during this important phase of your life. Tools and actionable strategies for exploring career options, finding employment, and succeeding in the workplace will be featured.
What Are Soft Skills?
Despite the popularity of the term "soft skills," there is actually no authoritative definition. They have been characterized as interpersonal skills, life skills, social skills, and employability skills, among others.
Over the past few years, we have done extensive research, including employer interviewers, to identify the soft skills demanded most in the workplace, particularly from entry-level workers. We found that these fall into six broad categories:
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Networking
- Enthusiasm
- Problem-solving and critical thinking
- Professionalism
There are many different behaviors and personal attributes within each of the above soft skills categories, and the Youth and Young Adults section of the Soft Skills Builder blog will provide valuable information that you can immediately put into practice for job search and workplace success. Many relevant articles and resources are also posted under other categories of this blog, and we encourage you to visit those as well.
Why Should You Subscribe to this Blog?
In survey after survey, employers say their number one requirement for a job applicant is good soft skills. They’ll typically train employees on hard skills – using the cash register, filling out forms, troubleshooting customer service problems, etc. – but expect you to demonstrate soft skills as early as the interview. Furthermore, soft skills are important for advancement in a job, and the lack of soft skills can easily get you fired.
The workplace is full of unexpected and challenging situations, so the more soft skills you master:
- The better you will perform your job;
- The stronger your work relationships will be;
- The more you will impress your boss; and
- The happier and more satisfied you will feel at work.
It would be our privilege to help you strengthen your soft skills and achieve these positive outcomes. Subscribe now to make sure you never miss a post!
Receive email notifications when new posts are added: