**4 Essential Soft Skills Sought by Google**

Navigating the Unwritten Job Requirements

Have you ever wondered what lies beneath the surface of a job description? What are the secret ingredients that set apart top candidates from the rest? According to Laszlo Bock, Senior Vice President of People Operations at Google, it's not just about technical skills or impressive credentials.

One of the most critical skills Google looks for is the ability to think on your feet, making sense of complex data and adapting to changing circumstances. This skill can be demonstrated through behavioral interviews, where you're asked to recount a time when you had to make a decision based on incomplete or conflicting information. To showcase this skill, craft a compelling story using the STAR method: Situation, Task, Actions, and Results.

Another essential trait is emergent leadership, where you step up to solve problems and then seamlessly return to your team role. This can be demonstrated through LinkedIn recommendations from peers and supervisors that highlight your ability to take charge.

Intellectual humility is also highly valued, where you're willing to fight for your ideas but also open to new perspectives and willing to adapt. This means being humble enough to take on tasks that may not be glamorous, but are essential to getting the job done.

Finally, a desire to learn and an inquisitive nature can lead to innovative solutions and new ideas. While not all industries prioritize innovation, it's essential to understand the cultural nuances of your desired field and showcase your love of learning accordingly.

So, why do hiring managers focus on technical skills when soft skills are what truly set candidates apart? Is it a communication breakdown or a limitation of technology? Whatever the reason, it's clear that there's a need for a more holistic approach to recruiting.

In today's complex job market, it's essential to have a guide who can help you navigate the unwritten rules and requirements. By focusing on developing these critical skills and showcasing them in a compelling way, you'll be well on your way to landing your dream job.