Develop your soft skills

As well as a great academic record, employers will often be interested in your ‘soft skills’, which are the skills involved with how you interact with other people.

Here are some handy ways you can build your soft skills outside the classroom.

Internships

There are certain skills that can only be learned through experience, and one of the best ways to acquire them is through internships. Whether it’s part time or full time, sometimes universities can't always help you build workforce skills such as time management, conflict resolution and teamwork.

Non-profit organisations

Have you ever thought of working for a nonprofit organisation? Volunteering your time for free may not sound appealing for everyone, but by helping a worthy cause you can actually widen your horizons and broaden your skill set as well. Volunteering helps you adapt to people who are different from you, build your confidence, and improve your leadership skills. Don’t miss out on volunteer activities, as they can sometimes be the perfect opportunity to explore the world around you and meet new people – plus the experience will look great on your resume!

Clubs and societies

Whether you’re a freshman or a graduating student, getting involved in clubs and societies is a great opportunity to meet like-minded people and improve your skills in a specific area of interest. Joining clubs will also keep you busy and occupied, and in turn, will help you develop a more structured schedule to allow you to focus on your priorities and build your time management skills.

Workshops and seminars

Many institutions and professional organisations run workshops, seminars and other skill building opportunities for university students at little to no cost. Participating in these activities can be beneficial in learning new ideas, trying new tools, or sharpening your skills. The interactions can also help you become a better listener, smarter problem solver, and more open minded to other’s opinions.

In a nutshell, attending voluntary workshops and seminars is a fantastic way to make new connections and be seen as an expert in your area of study.