Soft or interpersonal skills relate to a person’s ability to interact and communicate effectively. Soft skills include communication, problem-solving, creativity, teamwork, adaptability, time management, empathy, and leadership.
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Unlike technical skills, the specialized knowledge and expertise required to perform specific tasks, soft skills are general abilities that can be used in many different situations. Employers are paying more and more attention to soft skills, as they are essential to ensure success at the workplace and develop effective relationships between team members.
A localization/translation project manager should have a blend of technical and soft skills. The following are seven soft skills that a localization/translation project manager should have:
1 - Effective communication
A project manager should be able to communicate effectively with the project team and clients. This includes the ability to communicate clearly and accurately, as well as the ability to listen and understand clients’ needs.
2 - Flexibility and adaptability
Projects often involve working with different teams and clients from different cultures and origins. A project manager should be able to adapt themselves and be flexible to ensure that the project goals are achieved.
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3 - Leadership
A project manager should be a good leader and be able to motivate their team to attain the project goals. This includes the ability to delegate tasks and set clear deadlines and objectives.
4 - Problem-solving
Localization projects often pose unique and complex challenges. A project manager should be able to identify and solve problems effectively and efficiently.
5 - Time management
Time management is crucial in localization/translation projects. A project manager should be able to set realistic deadlines and manage time effectively to ensure that the project objectives are met.
6 - Teamwork
Projects entail working with a team of people with different skills and experiences. Project coordinators should be able to work in teams and collaborate with team members to attain the project goals.
7 - Negotiation
A project manager should be able to negotiate with clients and other team members to ensure project objectives are met and the deadlines and proposals established for the project.
Bonus track:
- Critical thinking: a project manager should be able to analyze complex information and make informed decisions based on that information.
- Attention to detail: a project manager must pay attention to details to ensure the project is executed according to plan.
- Creativity: a project manager should use lateral thinking to find innovative solutions to the challenges that may arise throughout the project lifecycle.
- Task delegation: a project manager should be able to delegate tasks effectively to other team members to ensure deadlines are met.
- Motivation: a project manager should be able to motivate the team and keep them focused on the project goals.
- Conflict management: conflicts may arise in any project—that’s why a project manager should be able to handle conflicts effectively to avoid delays.
- Risk management: a project manager should be able to identify potential risks and develop strategies to mitigate them.
