You’re a computer networking professional. What are the most important soft skills you need to succeed?

1 Communication skills

Communication skills are essential for any profession, but especially for computer networking professionals who have to interact with various stakeholders, such as clients, users, managers, vendors, and colleagues. You need to be able to explain complex technical concepts in simple and clear terms, listen actively to feedback and requests, write concise and accurate documentation and reports, and use appropriate communication channels and tools. To improve your communication skills, you can practice by giving presentations, participating in discussions, asking questions, and seeking feedback.

2 Teamwork skills

Teamwork skills are also vital for computer networking professionals, as they often have to work in teams to design, install, maintain, and troubleshoot network systems and devices. You need to be able to cooperate with others, respect different opinions and perspectives, share information and resources, and contribute to the team's goals and performance. To enhance your teamwork skills, you can join professional associations, online communities, or peer groups, where you can exchange ideas, learn from others, and build relationships.

3 Problem-solving skills

Problem-solving skills are crucial for computer networking professionals, as they face various challenges and issues on a daily basis. You need to be able to identify, analyze, and resolve network problems quickly and efficiently, using logical and creative thinking, technical knowledge, and available tools. You also need to be able to anticipate potential problems and prevent them from occurring, as well as learn from mistakes and improve your processes. To sharpen your problem-solving skills, you can practice by taking on new projects, using simulations, or participating in competitions or hackathons.

4 Adaptability skills

Adaptability skills are important for computer networking professionals, as they have to keep up with the constant changes and innovations in the field. You need to be able to adapt to new technologies, standards, protocols, and requirements, as well as to changing customer needs, expectations, and preferences. You also need to be able to cope with uncertainty, ambiguity, and stress, and adjust your plans and actions accordingly. To boost your adaptability skills, you can learn new skills, take courses, read blogs and magazines, or attend webinars and workshops.

5 Customer service skills

Customer service skills are essential for computer networking professionals, as they have to provide quality service and support to their customers, whether they are internal or external. You need to be able to understand customer needs and expectations, deliver solutions that meet or exceed them, handle complaints and feedback professionally, and follow up and maintain customer satisfaction. You also need to be courteous, respectful, empathetic, and responsive, and build trust and rapport with your customers. To develop your customer service skills, you can seek customer feedback, monitor customer satisfaction metrics, or take customer service training.

6 Leadership skills

Leadership skills are beneficial for computer networking professionals, as they can help them advance in their careers and take on more responsibilities and challenges. You need to be able to lead and motivate others, set and achieve goals, delegate and monitor tasks, provide guidance and feedback, and resolve conflicts and issues. You also need to be confident, decisive, accountable, and ethical, and inspire trust and respect from your team and stakeholders. To cultivate your leadership skills, you can volunteer for leadership roles, seek mentorship or coaching, or take leadership courses.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?