The most valuable skills at work are often untaught and unspoken. But they are key to a successful career.

These skills include managing expectations, getting influence, managing conflicts, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. 12 Universal Skills goes in-depth with the twelve most important, demystifying them into practical tips and advice.

All skills are based on the authors’ deep experience and extensive talks with other professional leaders. And they’re backed by research in organizational theory, leadership theory, communication, work psychology, positive psychology, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

For job searchers, the book’s appendix combines the 12 skills with step-by-step instructions for preparing, applying, and interviewing for potential jobs. This holistic approach is especially relevant for those with little (or no) professional work experience.

Who is this book for?

• Soon-to-be graduates: Get a head start by learning essential employability and career management skills.
• Internship: Be informed and confident as you explore and then successfully complete your internship (or apprenticeship).
• Career starters: If you’re in the first years of your career, speed up your learning and growth.
• Job seekers: Approach the process with confidence based on your combined understanding of the job skills recruiters seek and the best job search techniques.
• First-time leaders: Make sure you have your basics right when leading others! You want to be a role model, not look like a novice.
• Everyone else: Most of us sometimes feel disengaged, frustrated, overwhelmed, or stressed. Often, it’s because we lack some core skills, even when we are well into our careers. If that’s you, take the opportunity to catch up.