Applicants should never overlook the importance of soft skills in landing a job, or securing a promotion. Of course, employers will always pay close attention to hard skills - academic results, professional qualifications, computer knowledge and proficiency in languages - but they also want to see evidence of the attributes that help people co-operate with colleagues, overcome challenges and function well in the workplace.

Problem solving This can include anything from conducting a formal cost-benefit analysis, implementing a new system, devising a logistics process, or running a speaker event. The key is to demonstrate an ability to understand the nature of the problem, draw up and execute a plan, and achieve noticeable results.

Time management Prioritising tasks and completing them by a deadline may sound simple, but a lot of people come up short. They allow themselves to procrastinate, or get easily distracted from the task at hand, creating delays and adversely affecting productivity.

Teamwork Conflict in the workplace wastes time and is destructive. What managers want are people who will give ideas, assistance, advice and support, and who understands that every business success depends on effective co-operation.

Article contributed by Lancy Chui, managing director, Manpower Hong Kong, Macau and Vietnam operations