Interpersonal skills and communication skills are probably two of the most valuable to the discipline. Written communications skills need to be highly polished as documentation and paperwork constitute such a large portion of work in the field today. Most human service workers have a commitment to helping other human beings. They experience deep satisfaction in having opportunities to help create change in the lives of others. Work in this field is typically never boring and constantly changing.
Many workers enjoy the fast paced nature of the work and are flexible by nature.
Many workers in the field of social and human services report that stress levels are fairly high. Effective workers are excellent in managing time and multiple roles which can help to reduce stress. To be successful in this career you must truly enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds, and who have diverse needs. Graduates of two-year human service or social service programs like Edison's HUS program may find that they are eligible to apply with the Ohio Counselor and Social Worker Board to become a state registered Social Work Assistant. Some agencies specifically seek potential employees who are registered.