The Soft Skills to Look for in a PhD
Posted August 15th, 2016
While it is easy to focus on the concrete skills a PhD may have earned through their education, especially those focused within scientific and mathematical fields, soft skills should also be considered when making a hiring decision. Soft skills are not as easy to present within a resume or work history, but they are often highly valued in the workplace.
For a skill to be considered soft, it is often not easily defined in regards of how the skill is acquired and what its future use entails, but soft skills are often easily transferable between workplaces and assignments. If you want to assess whether a candidate has the soft skills necessary, consider examining these key areas.
Self-Management
One skill area that is often exhibited by those who successfully complete a PhD program applies to self-management. Skills in this area relate to how a person perceives themselves and the people around them, as well as their approach to managing their emotional responses to difficulties or adversity.
This can include a sense of self-confidence, as well as the ability to regulate one’s emotional reactions to external stimuli. Stress management skills are often a key feature, as well as the ability to bounce back from disappointments or mistakes.
Those with strong self-management skills are often able to work calmly under pressure, and may be more resilient in the face of difficulties. They may also exhibit a higher level of patience as well as increased persistence when dealing with challenging tasks.
Communication and Interpersonal Relationship Skills
Communication and interpersonal relationship skills include how the person interacts with others during the course of their work. This can refer to skills in areas of teamwork or leadership, as well as the ability to facilitate and coordinate challenging tasks that involve multiple personality types. Mentoring skills are also included, as well as an ability to explain complex situations in a way that can be understood by others who do not have their level of education or expertise.
Dependability and Time Management
A person who can be relied upon to perform, and is always accountable for their actions, can be an asset to any team. Being able to count on their presence and dedication can be seen as a commitment to the others they interact with, as well as the business as a whole.
In order to maintain one’s commitments, time management skills are often highly desirable. This helps ensure that a person has a full understanding of the work that is required to meet certain obligations, as well as adjust to shifting priorities or surprise obstacles. These employees are often seen as fairly flexible in nature, as they are open to adapting to the needs of the group instead of holding on to preconceived notions as to what should be a priority.
How Do You Discover an Applicants Soft Skills?
Since these skills are not as easily identified on paper, it is important to ask the proper questions when meeting a potential candidate. This can include asking for examples of when they had to assume a leadership role on a project, a time they had to deal with conflict within a group, or an experience that put their time management skills to the test. By asking probing questions, you are more likely to hear indications of the person’s soft skills and how they may apply to your business environment.
Here at Bayside Solutions, we understand the value soft skills provide in a workplace. Let us help you more than just the hard skills you need, but the soft skills that will help your team flourish. Let us help you get the team of your dreams.
