How many times have you found in a job post: we are looking for a flexible person? Well, you certainly do not have to have gymnastic skills for this, but this one soft skill has become increasingly sought after by recruiters. Why? Because a flexible person changes the working method or approach when necessary to successfully complete a project.
Can we learn how to be flexible? We say yes, so we have come up with some suggestions.
PROPOSE ORIGINAL SOLUTIONS
Flexible employees automatically think of alternatives when the first proposed idea is not accepted. Coming with new solutions, they prove adaptability, show that they know how to accept failure and move on. In other words, they prove resilience!
ACCEPT THE CHANGE
Most consider the new one a reason for stress and discomfort. But change is part of any job, especially nowadays, and the ability to cope with it is essential. One way to learn how to do this is to start seeing new things as a challenge: change thus becomes a normal thing in the work process. Moreover, by experiencing new things you gain new skills and gain useful experience.
BE OPTIMISTIC
It can be difficult to stay positive when you know that a big and urgent project is approaching. But focus on the full side of the glass, on the positive aspects … This will help you maintain your endurance and stay focused. A break or a change in routine could be an opportunity to learn and work with different colleagues, customers, or new suppliers.
BE ZEN!
To demonstrate flexibility, you need to stay calm even in the most stressful situations. This ability to handle various situations with a smile on your face will be the key ingredient in maintaining a positive work environment.
BE OPEN
It is important that when you face a new situation, you look at it from all angles. Take, for example, the stages of launching a new product. The study period, the analysis, before the launch is the period that consumes the most time. Give yourself time to ask, listen and understand the opinions of everyone involved.
SCHEDULE
Even if you cannot predict the future, you can still plan. Risk assessment and preparedness are key skills. For example, if you are presenting a product or service to a potential customer, it is a good idea to make a list of the questions they might ask and prepare your answers in advance.
KNOW YOUR LIMITS
Finally, we must say that what is too much is bad and that too much flexibility can become unproductive for you and your work. So, flexibility at all costs, with too many sacrifices meant to generate exhaustion and frustration, is useless. So, learn to say no!
Instead of concluding, we launch a challenge for you: tell us a situation in which flexibility has helped you cope with a challenge … at work … or in your personal life.
