Communication skills are the abilities you use when giving and receiving different kinds of information. Some examples include communicating ideas, feelings or what’s happening around you. Communication skills involve listening, talking, observing and empathizing. Having

strong communication skills is important in every industry at every career level.

Active listening is the ability to focus completely on the person who is talking, understand their message, comprehend the information and respond thoughtfully.  Active listeners use verbal and nonverbal techniques to show and keep their attention on the one who 

is communicating. Developing and using active listening skills can show your colleagues that you are engaged and have an interest in the project or task at hand.

Customer service skills are traits and practices that help you address customer needs to create a positive experience.  In general, customer service skills rely heavily on problem-solving and communication. Customer service is often considered a “soft skill,” including traits like 

active listening and reading both verbal and nonverbal cues.

Computer skills involve the ability to learn and operate various technology. Hardware skills allow you to physically operate a computer and can be as simple as knowing how to turn devices on and off.  Software skills help you to efficiently use computer programs and 

applications. There are some software skills that employers may consider as prerequisites to employment, like using spreadsheets or knowing a certain coding language.

Leadership skills are skills you use when organizing other people to reach a shared goal.  Whether you’re in a management position or leading a project, leadership skills require you to motivate others to complete a series of tasks, often according to a schedule.

Interpersonal skills are traits you rely on when you interact and communicate with others. They cover a variety of scenarios where cooperation is essential. Developing interpersonal skills is important to work efficiently with others, solve problems and lead projects or teams.

Problem-solving skills are qualities that help you determine the source of a problem and quickly find an effective solution.  This skill is highly valued in any role for every industry. Solving problems in your role might require certain industry or job-specific technical skills.

Management skills are qualities that help you govern both tasks and people. A good manager is organized, empathetic and communicates clearly to support a team or project.  Managers should also be adept in both soft skills and certain technical skills related to their industry.

Transferable skills are qualities that are useful to any employer as you change jobs or careers.  Transferable skills often include soft skills like flexibility, organization, teamwork or other qualities employers seek in strong candidates. Transferable skills can be used to position

your past experience when applying for a new job—especially if it’s in a different industry.

Time management skills allow you to complete tasks and projects before deadlines while also maintaining work-life balance. Staying organized can help you allocate your workday to specific tasks by importance.  Deeply understanding your individual, team and company goals

can provide a starting point when deciding how to manage your time.