Our ABC of CVs will give you all you need to know about those soft skills you’ll want to show off in your resume or interview.

This week it’s A, B and C. Pull up a chair and get comfy, folks. You’re going to want to hear this.

‘A’ is for ‘Active Listening’

What is it?

The ability to draw information from a situation that might not have otherwise been offered.

Why is it good?

Employers want intuitive staff – people who’ll treat each other, clients and management intelligently and with respect. Plus you’ll naturally be a comparatively faster learner and excel in client-facing roles.

How do I show I’ve got it?

This one’s perfect for an interview. Restating what has been said to you for clarification, relating situations to similar experiences, and drawing conclusions from what has been said are all ways you can show that you’re actively listening.

Can I have an example?

“I understand – so you’re saying that…?”

“I had a similar experience when…”

“I can imagine how challenging that must be.”

‘B’ is for ‘Business Development’

What is it?

The ability to drum up new business and bring in new customers to an existing portfolio, increasing its value to your company.

Why is it good?

It’s a no-brainer, really.  If you can bring in new business, the company you’re working for will continue to grow, and meet or exceed financial targets. More dollars means happy bosses! And happy bosses? Well that’s a career in the clear.

How do I show I’ve got it?

The easiest way is with proven examples of new customers you’ve brought on board in a previous role, which you can mention in a resume as sub-points under the relevant role, and also in an interview situation. But if you don’t have demonstrable experience, that doesn’t mean you don’t have an aptitude*, so don’t rule yourself out!

If you’re a great communicator, handy with a computer, well adept at reading people (including body language), excel in a team situation and have a head for the bottom line, chances are you’re on the money. Pun totally intended.

‘C’ is for ‘Conflict Management’

What is it?

The ability to handle difficult workplace situations, for example, differences of opinion, that could otherwise fester, escalate and destroy staff morale. On the flip side, there are some sorts of conflict that can actually be beneficial to the workplace, so being able to tell the one from the other is key.**

Why is it good?

Being able to negotiate people’s feelings AND the needs of the business makes you an asset in any workplace. Less conflict means more productivity, and at the end of the day, more dollars in the bank. Happy days!

How do I show I’ve got it?

If you’ve worked in Customer Service before, chances are you’ve demonstrated it at a career level on a daily basis. If you’ve ever handled a complaint from a client and made sure it didn’t escalate further, then congratulations – you’ve got it!

‘Good’ conflict usually takes place in a safe environment and has guidelines in place to ensure that it doesn’t turn nasty: think meetings, staged debates and 360-degree reviews.

Make sure you bring up any moments where you’ve excelled in Conflict Management at the interview – and then bring it home.

Ready to give your job search some further oomph? Then stay tuned – you’ll ‘D-E-F’-initely want to know a bit about next week’s three skills.

*Psst – got no experience and keen to prove that you’ve got what it takes? Our skills testing can identify your hidden talents. Book a free, 30-minute chat with our Career Consultants today.

**Want more resume help? Spend some time with us! http://careerfusion.co.nz We don’t bite … that would be unbeneficial conflict http://www.careerfusion.co.nz/