Mastering soft skills for workplace success Enthusiasm and

Mastering soft skills for workplace success Enthusiasm and Attitude

§ Enthusiasm can mean the difference What is the difference between “You’re Hired!” and “Thank you for your interest, but…” In a word: ENTHUSIASM! in not just getting a job, but succeeding in a job and even advancing in your career. § A positive and enthusiastic attitude is a critical component of workplace success.

POSITIVE ATTITUDE Having a positive attitude in the workplace can help with potential promotions. Employers promote employees who not only produce, but also motivate others in the workplace.

§ All other things being equal, a candidate Employers look for those who demonstrate Enthusiasm… who can demonstrate a positive attitude and eagerness to tackle the job will have an advantage over one who displays an attitude viewed by the employer as negative or disinterested. § In fact, many employers would rather provide job skills training to an enthusiastic but inexperienced worker than hire someone with perfect qualifications but a less than-positive attitude.

§ Managers sometimes worry that this type Enthusiasm Cont’d… of person will not get along with supervisors and co-workers, treat customers disrespectfully, and not put much effort into his or her work. § On the other hand, employees who are viewed as enthusiastic are known to provide good customer service, resolve interpersonal conflict effectively, and work productively with others.

IN THE WORKPLACE How to demonstrate Enthusiasm

During the interview process: SMILE! Sit Up Straight Make Eye Contact Discuss training and work experiences an upbeat manner. in

On the job: Enthusiastic employees will typically up on time. show Enthusiastic employees show interest in job Enthusiastic employees demonstrate a willingness to listen, learn & try new things

Helping Customers, Taking Initiative: an enthusiastic employee will approach proactively customers offer assistance seek out tasks and projects when there is down time

§ A positive attitude helps It’s more than just “getting along…” employees go above and beyond to get along with coworkers and managers – even difficult ones – and respond to constructive criticism with maturity and willingness to improve.

BE THAT PERSON! An employee with enthusiasm comes across as someone who wants to be at work and who is willing to do what it takes to get the job done.

§ Public Domain § Materials created by the federal government are generally part of the public domain and may be used, reproduced and distributed without permission. Therefore, content on this website which is in the public domain may be used without the prior permission of the U. S. Department of Labor (DOL). The Official Stuff § Reference: “Youth in Transition - Soft Skills to Pay the Bills Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success. ” Youth in Transition - Soft Skills: The Competitive Edge - Office of Disability Employment Policy - United States Department of Labor, U. S. Department of Labor, 18 May 2016, 8: 49 a. m. , www. dol. gov/odep/topics/youth/softskills/