When we talk about career growth, it’s easy to focus on the usual suspects: technical skills, certifications, and years of experience. But in today’s competitive and fast-evolving workforce, the skills that really move the needle are the most overlooked skills.

Whether you’re climbing the ladder, navigating a transition, or trying to stand out in a sea of resumes, mastering these underrated skills can quietly but powerfully set you apart.

Let’s dive into five often-overlooked skills that are actually essential to long-term career success:

1. Active Listening

We tend to equate good communication with talking—but in reality, listening is where real influence starts.

Active listening means giving your full attention, asking thoughtful follow-up questions, and showing that you genuinely understand what’s being said. In meetings, job interviews, and even day-to-day conversations, it builds trust and strengthens relationships. It also helps you catch details others might miss—giving you an edge.

Pro Tip: Try the “pause, paraphrase, and respond” method to ensure you’re fully tuned in.

2. Adaptability

In a world where industries are constantly evolving due to technology, economic shifts, and market demands, adaptability is not just a nice-to-have—it’s a must.

Those who can pivot quickly, embrace new tools, and stay calm under pressure are the ones who continue to thrive. Being adaptable shows employers that you’re solution-oriented and resilient, even when things don’t go according to plan.

Career Insight: Adaptability is a top trait employers look for in leadership roles and remote positions.

3. Self-Management

Time management is important—but self-management goes deeper. It’s about being accountable, staying motivated, and regulating your emotions, especially in high-stress situations.

With more workplaces moving toward hybrid or fully remote models, the ability to manage your own workload, deadlines, and energy levels has never been more important.

Quick Win: Block off time for focused work, and set mini-deadlines to keep yourself on track.

4. Asking for Help

Yes, this is a skill—and one that many professionals struggle with.

We often believe that asking for help signals weakness. But in reality, it shows emotional intelligence, collaboration, and a growth mindset. Knowing when (and how) to reach out to others can help you avoid mistakes, build stronger networks, and develop faster.

Action Step: Start by identifying a mentor or trusted colleague you can check in with regularly.

5. Career Storytelling

You could have all the skills in the world, but if you can’t articulate your value, you might get overlooked.

Career storytelling is about being able to explain your journey—your “why,” your wins, your growth—in a way that connects with employers, clients, or collaborators. It shows self-awareness and confidence, two qualities that inspire trust and leadership potential.

Conclusion: The Soft Skills Are the Power Skills

These five skills may not always show up on a job posting, but they often determine who gets hired, promoted, or remembered. If you’re looking to elevate your career in 2025 and beyond, take some time to strengthen these often-overlooked abilities.

Because in the end, it’s not just what you know that sets you apart—it’s how you show up.

In the wake of significant layoffs across various sectors in the United States, many professionals are seeking new employment opportunities. Notably, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has initiated layoffs affecting up to 10,000 employees, impacting agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Additionally, major companies like Morgan Stanley are planning to reduce their workforce by approximately 2,000 employees.

For those navigating this challenging landscape, leveraging effective job search platforms is crucial. Here are some of the top U.S. job search sites that can assist in finding new employment opportunities:

1. Indeed

   • Overview: Indeed is one of the world’s most popular job search engines, attracting over 350 million visitors per month. It offers a vast array of job listings across various industries and experience levels.

2. LinkedIn

   • Overview: Beyond being a professional networking platform, LinkedIn provides an extensive job board. Users can apply directly to positions, network with industry professionals, and receive job recommendations tailored to their profiles.​

3. CareerBuilder

   • Overview: As one of the largest job sites in the U.S., CareerBuilder offers a comprehensive database of job listings. Its platform is utilized by Fortune 500 companies, including Hilton and Amazon, indicating its robustness in connecting job seekers with reputable employers. ​

4. Monster

   • Overview: Monster provides a wide range of job listings and offers additional resources such as career advice, resume assistance, and salary tools to support job seekers throughout their search process.

5. ZipRecruiter

   • Overview: ZipRecruiter simplifies the job search process by allowing users to apply to multiple jobs with a single click. Its AI-driven technology matches candidates with relevant job opportunities, streamlining the application process.

6. Glassdoor

   • Overview: Known for its company reviews and salary insights, Glassdoor also offers a robust job search platform. It enables job seekers to gain a comprehensive understanding of potential employers before applying.​

7. FlexJobs

   • Overview: For those seeking remote or flexible work arrangements, FlexJobs specializes in curating legitimate opportunities in this niche, catering to the growing demand for work-life balance. ​

8. USAJOBS

   • Overview: As the official job site for the U.S. government, USAJOBS is an essential resource for those interested in federal employment opportunities, offering a centralized location for government job postings.​

Tips for Effective Job Searching:

• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with the specific job you’re applying for.​

• Leverage Networking: Utilize platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your desired industry, as networking can often lead to unadvertised opportunities.​

• Set Up Job Alerts: Many job search sites offer alert features to notify you of new postings that match your criteria, ensuring you stay updated on the latest opportunities.​

• Research Potential Employers: Use resources like Glassdoor to read company reviews and gain insights into company culture, salary ranges, and interview processes.​

• Stay Organized: Keep track of the positions you’ve applied for, upcoming interviews, and follow-up actions to maintain a structured job search approach.​

In these uncertain times, it’s essential to remain proactive and utilize all available resources to navigate the job market effectively. The platforms mentioned above can serve as valuable tools in your journey toward new employment opportunities.

In light of recent budget constraints and federal workforce restructuring, many government employees are facing the possibility of federal layoffs. For some, Reduction in Force (RIF) notices have already been issued, while others are left navigating the uncertainty of what might come next.

This article offers an overview of the federal layoff process and actionable steps employees can take to move forward with clarity and confidence.

Understanding the Federal Layoff Landscape

Federal layoffs—officially referred to as Reductions in Force (RIFs)—are governed by strict guidelines from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). These guidelines take into account factors such as tenure, veterans’ preference, performance ratings, and job classification to determine who may be affected.

Recent shifts contributing to these workforce reductions include:

• Agency budget cuts

• Reprioritization of programs

• Organizational restructuring

• The expiration of temporary funding related to public health emergencies

While not every agency is impacted, the ripple effects are being felt across multiple departments.

What to Expect in a Federal RIF

If you are notified of a RIF or anticipate one, it’s important to understand the process and your rights:

1. Official Notice:
You’ll typically receive at least 60 days’ written notice before separation. This notice outlines your last day, severance eligibility, and any applicable appeal rights.

2. Bump and Retreat Rights:
Depending on your length of service, classification, and performance, you may be eligible for reassignment to another position within your agency.

3. Career Transition Programs:
Programs like the Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP) and Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP) provide displaced federal employees with priority consideration for hiring in other agencies.

4. HR Guidance:
Your Human Resources office will be your main point of contact for understanding your options and navigating the procedural requirements.

How to Prepare and Move Forward

While layoffs can be challenging, they can also create space for new career opportunities. Here are steps you can take right now:

Update Your Federal Resume:
Ensure your USAJOBS profile and federal resume are current, detailed, and tailored to your expertise. The federal format is more comprehensive than a standard resume, so be thorough.

Activate Your Network:
Reach out to trusted colleagues, mentors, and contacts both within and outside the federal space. Networking remains one of the most effective strategies in a job search.

Seek Career Support:
This is an ideal time to work with a career coach or resume writer who understands federal hiring systems. WORxK Solutions, LLC offers specialized support for federal jobseekers, including interview prep, career branding, and mindset coaching.

Explore Cross-Sector Opportunities:
While your experience may have been in government, your skills are highly transferable. Consider roles in nonprofit organizations, consulting, higher education, or private industry.

Final Thoughts

A federal layoff can feel unsettling, but it does not define your career trajectory. With the right support, preparation, and mindset, you can transition into new roles that are equally, if not more, aligned with your goals and values.

Being laid off isn’t the end—it’s a redirection. Use this moment as an opportunity to reflect, reset, and explore the next chapter of your professional journey.

Need help navigating your federal job transition? Visit WORxKSolutions.com to learn more about our coaching services, federal resume writing, and personalized career strategies.