When we think about tech and transitioning into tech, I can guarantee the first thing that comes to mind is programming or coding… but I have slowly come to learn, understand, and enjoy the non technical aspects of tech.
I already know within myself (from developing in my professional career), that I have tons of interpersonal skills. These are the skills that come natural to me, but like any other skill, I believe these can be learned and improved on.
What do you think of when the word soft skills come to mind? According to an Indeed article I read earlier, soft skills are the abilities that relate to how you work and how you deal with other people. And they are the most desirable skills needed in all professions (yes, including tech).
Focusing on the soft skills I have, here is how I choose to develop and sharpen these skills (and you can too).
Communication
Always talk to people. Every. Single. Day. I am an introvert and I love days I can be by myself to recharge my mind and being in my quiet space helps. But I have realized that the more I speak to people (whether online, or at the supermarket) it helps greatly in the way I communicate. It is a great way to build rapport - which is great for building relationships with stakeholders ;)
Write, write, write. I am an avid note taker and love to put words to what is going on in my mind. Keeps me organized and this has helped me greatly in knowing how to put my words down in a manner that would communicate my message across in a way for others to understand.
Flexibility
Tech is always changing, so it is important I stay on my toes and up to date with current systems and new ways of working (also important to create new ways of working). Thus, having skills that adapt to new ways of working to suit the business needs is a good way to stay ahead of the game. Be open to change!
Empathy and Honesty
Being kind goes a long way! Understanding the way people feel and why they feel that way has helped me improve on my feeling of empathy towards others. When you step into people’s shoes and see things from their perspective, it allows me to better understand, and share feelings. This will eventually lead to an improved end user experience, customers and stakeholders ;)
Being honest goes a long way! I always take it upon myself to be 100% transparent with the people I am working with and it has helped to build trust and improved on relationship building.