Dictionary of Soft Skills

Accountable—Answering for one’s actions

Accurate—Providing truthful, factual information

Ambitious—Going the extra mile to accomplish goals

Analytical—Using logical reasoning to find solutions to problems

Articulate—Expressing spoken ideas effectively

Assertive—Expressing needs and opinions in a productive way

Autonomous—Independently planning the work and working the plan

Coachable—Taking direction and criticism without being defensive

Committed—Dedicated to keeping a promise

Confident—Willing to take calculated risks

Creative—Thinking outside of the box

Curious—Eager to learn new things

Decisive—Making good decisions quickly

Dependable—Consistently providing what is expected

Detail-oriented—Paying attention to the little things

Determined—Sticking to a firm decision

Empathetic—Relating to the feelings of others

Enthusiastic—Bringing a high level of energy to every task

Ethical—Operating by written and unwritten standards of expected behavior

Focused—Staying on task until its completion

Flexible—Adapting to new expectations and procedures

Goal-oriented—Preventing barriers from interfering with plans

Helpful—Making it easier for others to accomplish goals

Hard-working—Investing diligent effort every day

Honest—Doing what is right, because it is right

Humble—Sharing credit for accomplishments

Influential—Using personal power to make a difference

Initiative—Recognizing opportunities before being told

Integrity—Doing the right thing in the right way

Loyal—Demonstrating commitment in adversity

Observant—Noticing small, but important details

Organized-- Arranging details to achieve maximum efficiency

Passionate—Showing strong emotional investments to important things

Persuasive—Helping others to see another perspective

Polite— Acting with consideration for others

Positive/Optimistic—Seeing potential instead of pitfalls

Prepared-- Being effectively organized, ready and equipped ahead of time

Proactive—Thinking ahead to anticipate the next move

Productive—Showing accomplishments for resources used

Punctual—Meeting deadlines

Reliable—Taking responsibilities seriously

Resilient—Growing from adversity

Respectful— Treating others with high regard

Self-aware—Understanding one’s own strengths and limitations

Self-disciplined—Staying on task in spite of distractions

Self-managed—Working without direct supervision

Self-motivated—Working without being pushed

Team spirited—Collaborating effectively with others

Trustworthy—Deserving of confidence and respect

Work Skills

Critical thinking

Problem Solving

Decision making

Active listening

Computer competency

Technology literacy

Multicultural awareness

Research

Communication

Organization

Interpersonal relationship

Professional growth

Emotional intelligence

Leadership

Customer service

Team building

Time management

Contribution

Designing

Writing

Calculation

Public speaking

Goal setting/goal achievement

Conflict resolution

Strategic thinking

Collaboration

Energy

Professionalism

Planning

Cooperation

Innovation

Negotiation

Presentation

Influence

Coaching

Teaching