The difference between soft skills and hard skills

Hard skills are the specific knowledge, abilities and techniques needed to perform a particular task or job. These skills can be learned and developed through training, experience and practice.

Soft skills, on the other hand, are the characteristics and personality traits that help a person succeed in their job. This can include things like the ability to work in a team, resilience, work ethic, effective communication and adaptability.

8 soft skills to include in your CV

The digital age is transforming the accounting and finance industry. Many tasks that used to be performed by employees can now be automated.

These days, employers are looking to recruit employees who have specific interpersonal skills that add value to their team.

The goal is not to list qualities you don't have. Take a moment and analyze yourself. Try to determine what your hard and soft skills are, as honestly as possible. And if you lack inspiration, here are 8 examples of soft skills employers often look for:

1. Adaptability

The ability to adapt to different situations is a quality highly sought after by employers. 

Every workplace is prone to change, from bosses and colleagues to tasks, etc. The ideal candidate is able to stay productive while adapting to these changes.

2. Communication

Good communication is a skill that is universally appreciated by employers.

By communicating their ideas and questions openly, employees can make themselves truly indispensable to the team.

Knowing how to communicate also means knowing how to listen. If you demonstrate that you are open and willing to listen to your colleagues, they will come to you for help with any problems that arise.

3. Independence

Being able to work independently is a real asset for any employee. Your superiors expect you to be able to fill your days productively without too much guidance or monitoring. 

Of course, it’s important to ask for help if you need it. Your employer just wants to ensure that you are able to make decisions on your own and do your job well.

4. Organization and time management

Organization is another important soft skill to have. 

If you manage your time properly, you can set yourself daily and weekly goals that will help you accomplish your tasks within the required timeframe.

This will enable you to do your job more effectively and demonstrate to your superiors that you are equal to the challenges you face.

5. Teamwork

In the most high demand jobs in accounting and finance, teamwork is part of everyday life. That’s why most employers see the ability to work well in a team as an essential skill.

Teamwork isn’t always easy. You may not get along well with one of your colleagues, or someone on your team might be less diligent in their work, but you have to be able to put your differences aside in order to accomplish your common tasks.

6. Curiosity and initiative

Employers always appreciate employees who demonstrate curiosity. 

Curiosity is the best way to show your superiors that you have a strong interest in your work and you want to contribute to the success of the company.

Generally, employees who demonstrate curiosity also tend to take initiative in their work. Employers like to see their employees being proactive, because it shows that they are motivated.

7. Diligence

Diligence is a skill that generally goes hand in hand with autonomy and organization. Being diligent means being effective and rigorous in all aspects of the job. It’s not surprising that this skill is highly prized by employers. 

When you respond to job offers in finance or accounting, make sure your CV and cover letter show your diligence. Your references can also attest to your diligence at work.

8. Leadership

People with leadership skills are great to have on a team. Leaders are driven and have the ability to motivate their colleagues. Bosses, who have the sometimes-exhausting task of motivating and encouraging the team, tend to really appreciate the help.

We also have an article on the most sought after skills in finance if you want more specific skills by industry!

How to present your soft skills in your CV

No matter how many skills you have, simply listing them on your CV won’t be enough to impress recruiters and prospective employers. You need to be able to describe in an interview how each of your skills helps you accomplish the tasks assigned to you.

Start by selecting a few of your most important soft skills (5 maximum).

Then, describe in a few words how these skills are assets to the job you are applying for. 

For example, if you are applying for a job in accounting, you could mention that you are diligent, autonomous, curious and you work well in a team.

You could then explain how these skills have strengthened your job performance and how they will help you succeed in the position you are applying for.

With that information, employers will be better able to determine what your assets are and will be more likely to choose your CV.

Don’t be afraid to show who you are!

Employers are increasingly looking to hire people who can bring human value to their business. So, don’t be afraid to highlight your personality and soft skills! It all starts with your CV.

Diligence, autonomy, leadership, communication… Regardless of what skills you have, don’t hesitate to use them to your advantage when applying for a job.

The infamous strengths and weaknesses interview question won't scare you away once you know which qualities to highlight on your resume and hiring history. 😊

Fed Finance can help you find a job in finance

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