5 Top Soft Skills Employers are Looking Out For in 2020

10.07.2020

Candidates with technical skills who can also demonstrate a range of soft skills are in high demand in today’s competitive job market. Soft skills show an employer that you posses the right attitude and interpersonal skills to work well with others and stand out in the work place.

Hard skills are easier to learn and are more specific to your job role. For instance, a hard skill for an Electrician might be the ability to use hand tools or experience with commissioning work. However, the ability to work well with others trades on site is a soft skill that is not as easy to learn.

We asked one of our Labour Managers to name the top 5 transferable soft skills that clients typically ask for when they approach Advanced Group for construction staff.

This is what Anthony said…..

Collaboration

“This is the most common soft skill our clients ask for. After all, the success of a project doesn’t come down to one person, it’s the joint efforts of everyone on site working together to achieve the same goal that makes a difference. Some candidates might prefer to work alone, get the job done quickly and safely without interruptions, but it is also important to demonstrate that you are a team player”

Communication

“Verbal communication skills are important on a construction site. Firstly, you need to be able to listen and understand specific instructions given to you by your supervisor. This will ensure that you are able to complete the job to the clients’ satisfaction. It is also vital that you are able to communicate and build relationships with fellow workers on site, this is something our clients definitely look out for”

Adaptability

“From time to time clients will need to make rapid decisions to ensure the project does not fall behind. If you are on site at this time and can demonstrate that you are flexible and can take on extra responsibilities that might lay outside your area of expertise or comfort zone you will be you will be a hot commodity”

Problem Solving

“When there’s a problem on site our staff can either dwell on it or take action. Initiative and action is what will get you noticed in a positive way by clients. Know how to adapt and think on your feet and it will make you stand out”

Work Ethic

“This is really important to employers because it means they don’t have to micromanage staff but instead concentrate on the important day to day running of the business. By making sure you arrive to site on time, never miss a day and are prepared to go the extra mile for the client you will ensure that you are always in high demand”

Here at Advanced Group our recruitment teams encourage all existing staff and new candidates to look at ways to develop their soft skills so that they are in a better position to secure a long a long-term job.

It also means that when we are sending staff out to our clients sites who we are confident will not be disappoint in terms of technical skills and interpersonal skills. We want all clients to come back to us to hire staff time and time again.

If you would like to get in touch with Anthony or anyone in the team to discuss work opportunities please call 02 8086 3444

If you are looking for construction staff for your project please contact us and a consultant will be in touch to discuss further.