Community Support Service can also be referred to as Social Work or Social Service. Besides formal academic training, it requires a variety of emotional and psychological skills. Even though the profession is informed by knowledge and practice, some of the most important skills need to be cultivated internally.   As this is the month for international support workers, we’ve compiled a list of six crucial skills you should possess if you want to develop a successful career in community support services.  

Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking

A community support worker must possess critical thinking and problem-solving skills. As they mainly deal with the problems of individuals and communities, they should be willing to listen to people’s concerns, whether it is addiction, trauma, homelessness, or another critical issue. Community support workers must assist individuals or communities in implementing realistic and beneficial solutions so that their situations improve or, at the very least, not deteriorate.  

Ethics and Non-judgmental Behaviour

Regardless of their own personal beliefs, community support workers should always act in the best interests of their clients. When working with clients, you must learn to suppress your own judgment and follow the ethical guidelines established by the provincial and federal licensing boards.  

Good Organizational Skills

You must be well organized in order to stay on top of your busy schedule and heavy caseload as a community support worker. Successfully managing and prioritizing the logistical aspects of the job can enable you to provide meaningful services to your clients.   It is imperative to learn how to simplify your work environment, prioritize tasks, use good decision-making practices, and keep track of important events. In the end, an uncluttered mind will be the most effective stress relief while working long hours.  

Empathy

Community support workers value empathy above everything else. Empathy refers to the ability to place yourself in their shoes to better understand their situation and how they are feeling. Empathizing is an intellectual and emotional process that makes it easier to help others.   It is essential for anyone working in the field of community support services to be sensitive to the emotions of others. Most people you work with are in a state of physical and emotional distress. As a result, you must be able to provide them with a caring, understanding, and empowering environment.  

Communication Skills

Communication skills encompass both written and verbal correspondence with clients and other professionals. As a community support worker, you should have excellent communication skills to convey information to your clients and your organization.   You must also have good listening skills in order to obtain all the information required to complete your tasks. Effective communication will allow you to advocate appropriately, remain clear and concise, appear professional, and avoid or overcome difficulties.  

Having Patience

Community support services require a great deal of patience. Caretaking and counselling are highly complex, which is why they need a lot of time and professional skills. The desired progress does not occur overnight.   Your clients are going through hard times, and they need your help. So, it is essential that you develop a strong mindset and always remain patient with difficult people and situations.   Looking for more information about CSW training and careers? Check out Computek College‘s Community Service Work program. You will receive both classroom education and practical training in this program. Visit our website or call 416-321-9911 for more information.