Lecture 1 — Introduction to Professional Skills

Overview

This module explains what professional (employability) skills are and why they matter in any career. These transferable, non-technical abilities complement technical knowledge and help you succeed across roles and industries.

What are Professional / Employability Skills?

Interpersonal and workplace behaviors that employers look for beyond technical knowledge—useful across any industry.

• Examples: communication, teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability, time management, leadership.

Skills Necessary for Employment

• Communication (verbal, written, non-verbal)
• Critical thinking & problem-solving
• Teamwork & collaboration
• Adaptability & flexibility
• Time management
• Leadership

Classifying Workplace Skills

• Technical skills — job-specific expertise
• Soft skills — interpersonal & communication skills
• Transferable skills — usable across roles (e.g., problem-solving, adaptability)

Values, Beliefs, Attitudes & Character

Personal foundations that guide behavior at work and in life.

• Values: honesty, integrity, respect, responsibility, compassion, fairness, courage, excellence
• Beliefs: growth mindset, optimism, self-efficacy
• Attitudes: open-mindedness, tolerance, empathy
• Character: trustworthiness, responsibility, fairness, courage

Why These Skills Matter & How to Develop Them

• They enhance employability, workplace success, and career growth.

• Keep learning (courses/workshops), practise in real tasks, seek feedback, and embrace challenges.

What I Did

I attended the session, noted the assessment plan, and drafted a mapping of learning outcomes to portfolio evidence (CV, abstracts, and reflections aligned to each LO).

Johari Window Activity

During this activity, I explored self-awareness and how others perceive me. It helped me understand my strengths, weaknesses, blind spots, and hidden traits. This reflection strengthens communication, collaboration, and personal growth.