The 5 soft skills that should be on your resume

Whether you earned a college degree or have spent years working in your industry, your resume is probably full of your accomplishments and experiences. But in an increasingly competitive job market, employers are looking for more than just technical knowledge. Soft skills - personal attributes that allow people to participate effectively in the workplace - are incredibly important when it comes to your job search.

If you're looking to land employment in the field of your choosing, make sure that you're presenting your more general abilities in your application as well. When revamping your resume, these five soft skills may increase your odds of an interview if they find a place on the page.

1. Communication
In the 21st century, communication skills are more important than ever, no matter what field you work in. While there was a time when the majority of people communicated face-to-face, employees must now be able to write a succinct, clear email, extrapolate ideas while on video conference calls and craft compelling content for social media. While your resume may show a potential employer that you have the experience or training for the job you desire, you also need to show that you have the ability to translate these skills by effectively communicating with coworkers and clients.

2. Problem-solving
While companies typically don't advertise their problems, potential employers are likely all-too-aware that areas of improvement do indeed exist. That's why problem-solving skills are so important for employees. Businesses want to hire people who can not only manage day-to-day challenges on their own with little oversight, but can also help contribute to solutions for larger group objectives as well. Share a time that you overcame a challenge or contributed an innovative solution in a previous workplace.

3. Teamwork
Remember all of those group projects that you had to do in grade school? While they may not always be the most productive use of time for a bunch of excitable kids - you might have spent more time talking than actually working - these assignments set you and your classmates up for success in the workplace. Employers want to hire people who will work effectively with their teammates to accomplish group objectives. Even if you're a highly-qualified candidate, potential employers will hesitate over hiring you if they don't think you'll work well within their team structure.

4. Flexibility
You may have the knowledge and skills to perform a job with finesse, but what about when things don't go according to plan? You'll rarely work under ideal conditions, so it's important that your resume communicates your ability to roll with the punches. Show that you're able to manage shifting deadlines and adapt to evolving demands. The ability to prioritize is also an important component that shouldn't be underestimated. With technology and best practices rapidly evolving, being able to change with the times and alter your own methods will make you stand out from the crowd.

5. Time management
You may be working for the weekend, but your potential employer needs to know that you'll be using your time wisely during the daily 9 to 5. Provide examples of ways that you've effectively managed your time in the past to show that you're both dependable and efficient. This will make you an invaluable addition to your new company.

Are your soft skills lacking? Don't give up. Consider taking a course or seeking mentorship from someone in your field. You can also look for volunteer opportunities that will help you to develop these abilities in a setting similar to the one you wish to enter.

This content is brought to you by the Marketing Team at Beacon Hill Staffing Group.