Skills So Soft…..
Posted by getnimble on November 1, 2008
As business analyst, we are constantly in a state of learning. Whether its conferences, webinars or blogging, we are forever surfing the curve of learning. I’m wondering how many of my fellow teammates give equal time to bettering our soft skills? Hmmm
Defintion
Soft Skills are definied as the “are personal attributes that enhance an individual’s interactions, job performance and career prospects. (SearchCIO).” It’s the way we comment and react; our body language. Having a good soft skill set will not only enhance your hard skills. Sometimes they’ll even take you farther.
How do you better your soft skills? Here’s a suggestion.
Image by Getty Images via Daylife
Involve yourself in diverse conversations. This means being around diverse people. With diversity comes variety. You’ll learn how to say the same thing in different ways. Imagine how much easier it will be to talk to users, programmers, c-level and the kids! Expect to be uncomfortable as you push out of your box, but believe me its worth it.
So strike up a conversation with that barista at Starbucks, that fellow gym member or that gruff teammate that you dread. Nothing major; just exchange a few safe subjects; weather, light politics, paris hilton, etc. I promise you that the more you immerse yourself in uncomfortable situations; the less you will have.
Now you’re one step closer to easier deliveries. It comes in handy when you’re negotiating with a new client, justifying a pay raise or listening to the rantings of a rabid project manager.
Good luck and happy Halloween!!!
