This report states that "just over 78% of employers screen candidates by GPA" and they give much consideration to the career-related experience that college career center staffs are constantly promoting and encouraging students to participate in. So, when do these, so-called, "soft skills" work into the formula? These "soft skills" are the qualities that set candidates apart from one another.
I believe that for the most part, you can assume if you are invited for an on-site interview that the hiring organization feels pretty certain you are able to complete the tasks and responsibilities required for the job. At this point they are looking for which candidate seems to be the best match for the organization, shows genuine passion and interest in the position, and has experience in the other skills that are necessary to be successful in that organization. Many people call them "soft skills". I'm not a huge fan of that term because it makes them seem less important when, in fact, I believe that are probably just as important and maybe more important than the content skills gained through education and practical training and experience. If you look at the Top List from the NACE report you will quickly see that all of these skills need to be DEMONSTRATED in an interview. A hiring manager generally cannot glean these soft skills from a resume. A savvy job seeker will be prepared to answer questions and tell stories that demonstrate her skills in each of these areas. This list is the perfect "koofer" or study guide for the interview. (for those outside of Virginia Tech who don't know what a "koofer" is you can read more about it here, here and here)
To successfully demonstrate your skills in these areas for employers the job seeker must practice the art of descriptive and purposeful storytelling. There is a formula for answering these types of interviewing questions called STAR. STAR stands for Situation, Tasks, Action and Results. Tell a story that describes the:
Situation (or scenario)
Tasks that were involved in resolving or handling the situation
Action that was taken by YOU
Results of your efforts
When a job seeker uses this formula to answer interview questions regarding these types of skills and experiences she will provide a thorough, specific and detailed demonstration of her skill level. This is what will set her apart from other candidates.
Certainly these "soft skills" can be gained in the classroom but they are often also found in summer jobs and internships, involvement in student organizations, athletic teams, and volunteer and service experiences. Education and preparation for the working world does not just happen in the classroom of your college campus, it happens all over your campus. Students should take advantage of these opportunities to gain these much sought after "soft skills".
What do you think about these "soft skills". Could you answer an interview question about each of these top sought after skills?
