"12 Universal Skills: The Beginner's Guide to a Successful Work Life" by Peter Scheele and Nina Bech-Andersen is a practical and insightful guide that deserves a solid four stars for its comprehensive approach to essential skills often overlooked in the professional realm. This beginner's guide offers a wealth of knowledge, demystifying crucial skills necessary for a successful career.

The authors delve into the unspoken and untaught skills that are often the linchpin for a thriving work life. From managing expectations to cultivating influence, handling conflicts, and achieving a healthy work-life balance, "12 Universal Skills" provides an in-depth exploration of these critical aspects. The practical tips and advice offered by Scheele and Bech-Andersen make the learning process accessible and actionable.

What sets this book apart is the authors' foundation in extensive experience and conversations with professional leaders, backed by research in various fields including organizational theory, leadership theory, communication, work psychology, positive psychology, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). This multidisciplinary approach adds depth and credibility to the insights shared.

The book caters to a diverse audience, including soon-to-be graduates, interns, career starters, job seekers, first-time leaders, and even those already established in their careers. The holistic approach to employability and career management skills ensures relevance for individuals at various stages of professional development.

The inclusion of an appendix specifically tailored for job searchers is a valuable addition. The step-by-step instructions for preparing, applying, and interviewing for potential jobs provide practical guidance that is especially beneficial for those with little or no professional work experience.

While the book covers a wide array of skills, some readers might find that certain topics could benefit from more in-depth exploration. Additionally, the application of these skills in various work environments could be discussed further to address the diverse nature of workplaces.

In conclusion, "12 Universal Skills" is an invaluable resource for individuals looking to navigate the complexities of the professional world. Peter Scheele and Nina Bech-Andersen have crafted a guide that not only demystifies essential skills but also empowers readers with practical tools to enhance their employability and career management. Whether you're a recent graduate or an experienced professional seeking to refine your skills, this book provides a well-rounded foundation for success in the workplace.

This book uncovers the hidden skills of success that are often overlooked - managing expectations, gaining influence, handling conflicts, and more - all presented in a practical and easy-to-understand way. Whether you're a fresh grad, an internship explorer, or even a seasoned pro feeling a bit stuck, this book's a good resource for essential skills and job search tips. There are a lot of free accompanying worksheets available on their website and you don't have to opt-in. I wish they were all available as one single download, like a workbook, in addition to individually as 30+ PDF files. The cover on the Amazon book page is much more compelling than the one here with the ARC.

Some good advice but a lot of "filler" info. In general with self help books, I feel that there is too much time spent describing the issue instead of focusing on the solving portion of things. In my opinion, if someone is taking out the time to help a self help book on a particular issue, they probably understand the value in the information and don't need to spend a whole bunch of time explaining the problem/ or value of the information that is being presented. This book definitely suffered from this a bit, but not as bad as some other books I have read.

The book is a very good advice for an early stage career seekers and/or students who look for their first job. It showcases 12 skills suitable for any industry workplace due to them being universal by nature. There are plenty of good examples on how to apply those skills and where they are applicable. While reading ARC I though that this book can be also a refresher for early and mid career professionals because she to workload we tend to forget simple things. There is a good part devoted to job search that has a good value advice.