In order to be successful in today's workforce, it's critical that you master soft skills. While technical skills provide you with the know-how to complete your assigned tasks, soft skills are essential for building and sustaining rich relationships. 

Since people are at the heart of every business, the importance of working relationships cannot be overstated and should certainly be one of your main priorities. 

Below are three common soft skills you should work to strengthen, along with simple application strategies.

Leadership

1. Admit when you fail. The truth is, we all fail at times. A key part of being a good leader is taking ownership and helping guide the team forward.

2. Empower your team. NO ONE likes a micromanager. Identify the strengths of those around you and empower them to operate freely in them.

3. Keep learning. No matter how much you know, there is always more to learn. For bonus points, take time to ensure part of your learning comes through those around you.

Teamwork

1. Encourage and embrace feedback. The best teams are those where feedback flows freely. 

2. Create team traditions. Something as simple as showing love on birthdays or creating team awards goes a long way.

3. Recognize good work. Applaud and celebrate those around you for the good things they do. For bonus points, take time to understand how they best like to receive praise - some people enjoy the spotlight, while others would appreciate the praise in private.

Work ethic

1. Practice punctuality. Show those around you that you understand and appreciate the importance of time. Aim to arrive early if you have to.

2. Know your distractions and keep them to a minimum while working. Log out of social media. Put your phone on do not disturb. Focus on your work at hand.

3. Develop a can-do attitude. No one likes a negative Nancy. Be realistic, but rather than being problem-focused aim to be solution-oriented.

Mastering these three soft skills will certainly enrich your professional life. Action Step: Decide wihich skill you will focus on this week and take deliberate action.

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