Which one will lead you further in getting that Virtual Assitant Job?
What is a Skill?
According to wikipedia, A skill is the ability to carry out a task with determined results often within a given amount of time, energy, or both. It is the capacity of doing something well. It is the person’s ability to perform certain tasks.
Two types of Skill:
1. Hard Skill (Technical)
2. Soft Skill (Character)
What are the Hard Skills?
Hard skills, oftenly called technical skills, this skill refers to a specific task or situation. It comprises both understanding and proficiency in any specific activity that involves methods, processes, procedures, or techniques. These skills are easily quantifiable and can be acquired or learned through education.
Examples of Hard Skills:
1. Computer Technology
We are in the fast paced world leading towards the era of the Digital Cosmo. One must possess this skill, acquiring the technical skills involving the use of computers, laptop and internet. Since many company used computer-based job such as Virtual Assistant, possessing this skill will help you land that job.
2. Hard Communication Skills
This skill refers to the ability to express oneself orally or in written words. Orally, being able to speak multi-languages is a plus point for some company. Good writing skills allow you to communicate your message with clarity and ease to a far larger audience. Grammar, Spelling and Punctuation are the key in written communications. A lot of job offers requires, good writing skills such as content marketing, creative writing and blogging.
3. Mobile & Web Development
There are a lot of websites done each day, for businesses to market their services, for aspiring workers to showcase their skills and some just for entertainment. But this will not be possible without those people who creates and manages these websites.
4. Certificates, Trainings and Licenses
This is your proof that you possess those skills written in your CV/ Resume. Many employer would look at those certificates or training before hiring someone. As an aspiring Virtual Assistant, I enhanced my skills through enrolling in a Freelance Course. Thanks to Filipino Virtual Assitance Academy and my Coach Keren, I was able to acquire the skills I needed for this online job.
What are the Soft Skills?
According to wikipedia, Soft skills are a combination of people skills, social skills, communication skills, character or personality traits, attitudes, career attributes, social intelligence and emotional intelligence quotients, among others, that enable people to navigate their environment, work well with others, perform well, and achieve their goals with complementing hard skills.
Examples of Soft Skills
Following is a "top ten" list of soft skills compiled by Eastern Kentucky University from executive listings.
1. Communication – oral speaking capability, written, presenting, listening, clear speech & writing.
2. Courtesy – manners, etiquette, business etiquette, gracious, says please and thank you, respectful.
3. Flexibility – adaptability, willing to change, lifelong learner, accepts new things, adjusts, teachable.
4. Integrity – honest, ethical, high morals, has personal values, does what’s right.
5. Interpersonal skills – nice, personable, sense of humor, friendly, nurturing, empathetic, has self-control, patient, sociability, warmth, social skills.
6. Positive attitude – optimistic, enthusiastic, encouraging, happy, confident.
7. Professionalism – businesslike, well-dressed, appearance, poised.
8. Responsibility – accountable, reliable, gets the job done, resourceful, self-disciplined, wants to do well, conscientious, common sense.
9. Teamwork – cooperative, gets along with others, agreeable, supportive, helpful, collaborative.
10. Work ethic – hard working, willing to work, loyal, initiative, self-motivated, on time, good attendance.
So which skill will land you the job?
Businessman, Employer or Clients will look into your technical skills if you qualify for the job but does it means you are hired? They may check your qualifications first and consider you for the job but it's just the first step in the getting that online job.
Why?
Here’s the reasons:
Hard skills will be nothing without Soft skills.
For example, a virtual assistant who knows how to create websites, good at creating designs, knows how to use different kind of softwares, good at writing and communication but lacks the ability to manage his time well? Will he be able to keep the job?
Another example would be a salesman, if he is good in making catchy advertisements and presentations. If he knows how to optimize his page but lacks the determination and the interpersonal skill to deal with clients. Will he able to sell his products and retain its customers?
2. Hard Skills can be acquired easily. There are a lot of youtube tutorials that can teach you how to use a certain software or how to use an app. Through education, you can learn how to become a freelance virtual assistant through online courses offered. They can be easily taught and perfected by time. Soft skill pertains to the character of an individual. The skill is innate in nature and it will be hard for the employer to teach that skill. Hard skills may look good on your resume, the certifications may prove that you are qualified for the job but personality will let you keep the job.
Now that you know the difference between Hard skills and Soft skills, which one do you think is long lasting when hiring someone?
Hard skills are important but soft skills will always be the pillar or the backbone of your hard skills.
So take into consideration, when hiring someone experiences may be necessary but determination and hardwork will always be your gain. So hire someone with character and skills can be trained after. If you're looking for Affordable but Efficient Virtual Assistant then let's talk!
