Soft skill needed for Corporate America (jobs, career, companies, interest)

[SeminoleTom]

Having a backbone yet being friendly is one of the most difficult and challenging skills to master in corporate America.


I've worked in IT for 18 years now and am a IT manager. If you are interested in working in IT or other area within corp America (sales for sure, Finance- yes, Marketing-- not sure) then the earlier you can master this personality combo the better you will be. Especially if you want to move up the management ranks.


Here's the thing-- no one wants to work with a complete jerk that won't be respectful to people. On the other hand, you cannot be a doormat who gets blown over by everyone...because frankly EVERYONE has an agenda.


Someone once told me to stay friendly yet be able to turn your "game face" on at a moments notice (like a light switch) without being a complete ass. And then you need to be able to flip the light switch again... This was some pretty good advice I received. Anyone agree or disagree?

FYI- I'm assuming this is probably the same for companies around the world but as of now I've only worked in corp America. It would be interesting to know if anyone has differing experience with our friends around the globe.

[bizcuit]

This is very true. Also, in many jobs (at least in my job), you have to deal with every tier of staff, from technician to senior management, all different business areas (well beyond IT), as well as offshore teams and their management as well. It is a very fine line to walk to be able to speak to and wrangle such a broad range of people. In my case, my ability to do so has been a huge asset to my career.

[ccm123]

Having good EQ is critical, I agree that this is one of the most critical skills to have. It can be learned and trained though.