Soft skills are the intangible, personality-driven competencies that determine how well you can interact with others and perform in complex environments. These skills are crucial in every industry, but the priority given to each can differ. For instance, creative fields prioritize innovative thinking and collaboration, while customer service roles may value empathy and communication more highly.
The animal science industry, with roles ranging from farm management to sales and academic research, provides a clear example of how the importance of soft skills can differ.
Leadership in Live Animal Production
In live animal production, skills in leadership and problem-solving stand out. A farm manager, for example, needs to ensure the well-being of animals and the efficiency of farm operations. Strong leadership abilities and creative problem-solving skills can distinguish a candidate in this field.
Communication in Government and Regulatory Positions
Those in government or regulatory positions related to animal science need to excel in communication and negotiation. These professionals must ensure compliance with regulations while balancing the needs of various stakeholders, making clear and effective communication essential.
Teamwork in Academic Research
Collaborating and working as part of a team is crucial in academic settings. Research projects often require contributions from multiple disciplines, so being able to work effectively with others is a critical factor for success.
Empathy in Not-for-Profit Organizations
Empathy is critical for those in not-for-profit organizations focused on animal welfare. Understanding the needs and concerns of animals and communities is essential for individuals working in this sector.
Adaptability in Commercial Roles
Adaptability and customer service skills are paramount for those in commercial aspects of animal science, including technical support and sales. Understanding and responding to customer needs quickly is a valuable trait.
Highlighting Soft Skills on Your Resume
Regardless of the industry, highlighting your soft skills on your resume is essential. Here are a few ways to do this effectively:
Professional Summary: Use this section to highlight your key soft skills tailored to the industry you’re interested in.
Work Experience: Describe how your soft skills have positively impacted your roles, using specific examples and achievements.
Leadership and Teamwork: Show how you’ve contributed to team success or taken the initiative, even if you weren’t in a managerial role.
Dedicated Sections for Soft Skills: Creating sections like “Leadership & Engagement” or “Communication & Collaboration” can help draw attention to these skills.
While the importance of specific soft skills varies by industry, their overall value is undeniable. By understanding the industry you’re targeting and tailoring your resume to highlight the most relevant soft skills, you can position yourself as a well-rounded and attractive candidate. The animal science industry is just one example of how these skills can differentiate candidates across various roles, from farm management to research.
If you’re passionate about pursuing a career in the animal science industry or are seeking new opportunities and need guidance, connect with Maria Codilla on LinkedIn or email her at maria@continentalsearch.com.
About the Author
Maria Codilla is the Practice Manager for pork production/processing at Continental Search, a leading recruiting team in the animal sciences. She is a NAPS Certified Personnel Consultant and has the latest opportunities for swine farm managers, nutritionists, geneticists, and veterinarians.
Maria first joined Continental Search as Content Manager. Her impressive interpersonal skills earned her promotion to Talent Scout and then to Feed Mill Recruiter. For the latest job opportunities, connect with Maria on LinkedIn or email her at maria@continentalsearch.com.
