The Skills That Help You Stand Out Beyond Your CV: Career Advice from WTW's Priyanka Thakkarar
When people think about landing their next role, technical knowledge and industry experience are often the first things that come to mind.
Whilst these are undoubtedly important, they're only part of what employers are looking for.
According to Priyanka Thakkarar, it's often a candidate's soft skills that make the biggest difference throughout the hiring process and beyond. The ability to communicate effectively, collaborate with others and adapt to change doesn't just help you secure a role, it can shape your long-term career success
Soft Skills Help Recruiters See Your Potential
Technical skills demonstrate what you know, but soft skills demonstrate how you work.
Recruiters are looking for candidates who can communicate clearly, build strong relationships and contribute positively to a team. They also want people who can adapt when priorities change, take ownership of their work and approach challenges with a proactive mindset.
These behaviours give employers confidence that someone will not only perform well in the role but also continue to grow as their career develops.
Show Your Soft Skills Through Real Examples
It's one thing to say you're a good communicator or a collaborative team player. It's another to demonstrate it.
Priyanka recommends using examples throughout your CV and interviews that show how you've worked with others, solved problems, adapted to change or taken ownership of a project. Employers are far more likely to remember evidence than adjectives.
Whenever possible, explain what you did, how you approached the situation and the impact your actions had.
Cultural Fit Is About Shared Values, Not Fitting In
One area that's often misunderstood is cultural fit.
Rather than looking for people who all think the same, employers want individuals whose behaviours align with the organisation's values and ways of working.
Candidates can demonstrate this by taking the time to research the company beyond its website, understanding how its values are reflected in everyday behaviours and preparing examples that show similar qualities in their own experience.
Asking thoughtful questions during an interview is also a great way to show genuine interest in the organisation and understand whether it's the right fit for you too.
Small Behaviours Make a Big Difference
The strongest candidates aren't always those with the longest CVs.
They're often the people who communicate well, listen carefully, collaborate effectively and take ownership of their work.
By combining technical expertise with strong interpersonal skills, you'll not only improve your chances of securing your next opportunity but also set yourself up for long-term success.
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