Article 05 - Why do Soft Skills matter?
Why do Soft Skills matter?
Soft
skills are non-technical skills that describe how you work and interact with
others. Unlike hard skills, they’re not necessarily something you’ll learn in a
course, like data analytics or programming skills. Instead, they’re something
you often build through experience. Soft skills reflect your communication
style, work ethic, and work style Kaplan (2023).
“What exactly are soft skills?”
This basic question is not easy to answer, because the perception of what is a
soft skill differs from context to context. A subject may be considered a soft
skill in one particular area, and may be considered a hard skill in another. On
top of it the understanding of what should be recognised as a soft skill varies
widely. Knowledge in project management for instance is “nice to have” for an
electrical engineer, but it is a “must to have” for a civil engineer. Training
in cultural awareness might be useful for a chemist, but it is an absolute
necessity for public or human resources management in societies of diverse
cultures Schulz (2008).
Why are soft skills important?
The significance of soft skills remains an open question despite detailed
exploration. In today's competitive job market, candidates require a distinct
"competitive edge" beyond qualifications. Additional knowledge,
skills, and positive traits set them apart. Employers value quick-starters who
possess effective communication and practical skills, bolstered by attributes
like courtesy and flexibility. Soft skills become pivotal during interviews,
often covering shortcomings in hard skills. After recruitment, individuals with
strong soft skills enjoy better career prospects. Soft skills shape personality
and balance education. However, the current trend of prioritizing soft skills
over hard skills raises concerns. While soft skills are vital for social
competence and complement technical requirements, they shouldn't mask expertise
gaps Dent,
H (2023).
How to improve your Soft Skills
One way is enrolling for formal training, e.g. taking evening classes on Rhetoric, languages, presentation skills, conflict or cultural management. This is a well-proven concept with the advantage of having some kind of certificate at the end of the course, which might come in handy for job applications. The slight sarcasm in the last sentence is intentional, because it is not always guaranteed that a certain course actually successfully enhanced a person’s soft skills.
The other way of acquiring soft
skills we looked at is self-training, usually based on books. As we saw
earlier, changing of personal traits often requires long-term practice and
therefore self-training might be more useful regarding the improvement of this
category of soft skills. Additionally, during the last decade another method of
self-training has become increasingly popular: Electronic Learning, usually
abbreviated to e-learning. The article “Yes, web-based training can teach soft
skills” (Horton, 2007) emphasises the practicality of this approach.
Conclusion:
In a world where
things keep changing and people work together, learning soft skills is really
important. These skills, which are often forgotten next to technical skills,
are like the foundation for good communication, getting along well, and growing
as a person. They help us listen better, understand others, solve problems, and
be better leaders. Soft skills are like the secret to doing well in jobs and
life. When we learn these skills, we can handle different situations, solve
problems, and work well with others. These skills don't just help us do better,
but they also make things better for people around us.
Remedying
deficiencies in soft skills is achievable once they are identified. Educators
bear a significant responsibility, as they greatly influence students' soft
skill development during school and university years. Integrating soft skills
training into hard skills education is a potent approach, enhancing lesson appeal
and learner success. Soft skills play a vital role in shaping personalities by
complementing hard skills.
List of references.
Kaplan, Z (2023) What Are Soft Skills? Definition and
Examples. theforage .[online] . Available at https://www.theforage.com/blog/basics/what-are-soft-skills-definition-and-examples#:~:text=Soft%20skills%20are%20non%2Dtechnical,you%20often%20build%20through%20experience.
Accessed on 11th Aug 2023.
Schulz, B (2008) The Importance of Soft Skills: Education beyond academic knowledge. Journal of Language and Communication . [Online]. Available at https://ir.nust.na/xmlui/bitstream/handle/10628/39/The%20Importance%20of%20Soft%20%20Skills-Education%20beyond%20academic%20knowledge.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y . Accessed on 11th aug 2023.
Dent , H (2023) Students Can Improve Emotional Intelligence.
departments-schools-colleges/cob/about the-college-of-business/ideas .
[online]. Available at https://www.wcu.edu/learn/departments-schools-colleges/cob/about-the-college-of-business/ideas-with-impact/posts/students-improve-emotional-intelligence.aspx
. Accessed on 11th Aug 2023.
Your explanation of soft skills is quite insightful and relevant. In today's changing world, where collaboration is key, these skills are vital for good communication and personal growth. It's fascinating how they help us solve problems, understand others, and be better leaders.
ReplyDeleteSpeaking of Sri Lanka's context, with the country progressing in various sectors, how do you think the emphasis on soft skills aligns with the current job market demands and the growth of different industries?
Are there specific soft skills you believe are particularly valuable in the Sri Lankan context?
Indeed, your concerns are very practical. The focus on soft skills aligns well with today's job market needs and the growth of various industries. Industries now require employees who can communicate, adapt, collaborate, and solve problems effectively, such as customer service. The development of soft skills is comprehensively aligned with most of the industries in Sri Lanka, such as banking, telecommunication, aviation, hospitality, and many more service sectors. As technology advances, qualities like empathy, creativity, and leadership become even more important. Soft skills complement technical expertise, making individuals valuable across diverse industries and ensuring success in an evolving professional landscape.
DeleteYes, Prasadini, there are a lot of soft skills that are particularly valuable in the Sri Lankan context. I have highlighted a few down there for better understanding.
Cultural Sensitivity:
Sri Lanka is a multicultural society with diverse ethnicities and languages. Being culturally sensitive and understanding social norms is crucial for effective communication and collaboration.
Resilience:
Sri Lankans have faced various challenges over the years. Resilience in the face of adversity is a valuable trait.
Flexibility and Adaptability:
The country's economic and social landscape has undergone shifts in recent years. Those who can adapt to changes and uncertainties are likely to thrive.
Interpersonal Communication:
Strong communication skills, including active listening and clear expression, are vital in a society that places high value on respectful and courteous interactions.
Relationship Building:
Building strong relationships and networks is integral to the Sri Lankan business culture, where personal connections often play a significant role in professional success.
The article emphasizes the importance of soft skills in a rapidly changing world, emphasizing their role in strong interpersonal relationships, teamwork, and leadership. Soft skills are essential for problem-solving, conflict resolution, and adaptability, and their development is crucial for personal and professional success.
ReplyDeleteThe statement acknowledges the role of educators in nurturing soft skills development, integrating soft skills with hard skills to enhance employability and life skills.
According to Villiers (2010) by incorporating soft skills training alongside traditional education, educators can equip students for success in the complex modern world. Overall, integrating soft and hard skills is a compelling approach that aligns with the evolving demands of the modern world.
An interesting comment, and I agree with you. Further, by integrating soft skill training with traditional education, educators prepare students to thrive in today's intricate society. This combination empowers students with communication, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities, which are essential for navigating the multifaceted challenges of the modern world. It ensures a well-rounded education that goes beyond academic knowledge, enhancing students' readiness for personal and professional success.
DeleteReally impressive article to read. Soft skills are an essential part of improving one’s ability to work with others and can have a positive influence on furthering your career. If you are a small business owner or self-employed, soft skills can help you find, attract, and retain clients.
ReplyDeleteHighly-developed presentation skills, networking abilities, and etiquette awareness can help you win new clients and gain more work from existing clients. Honing your abilities to resolve conflicts, solve problems, and provide excellent customer service can lead to stronger relationships with colleagues, vendors, and other professional contacts. Ultimately, strong soft skills can help you gain confidence—an invaluable trait in the business world. (mbopartners.com)
I completely agree with your comment. As you stated, for small business owners or the self-employed, soft skills play a crucial role in finding, attracting, and retaining clients. Effective communication is essential for understanding clients' needs and conveying how your products or services can meet those needs. Empathy helps build a strong rapport, showing that you genuinely care about their concerns. Problem-solving skills allow you to address challenges creatively, enhancing the value you offer. Moreover, collaboration skills enable you to work closely with clients, involving them in decisions and making them feel valued. Time management ensures you meet deadlines and provide a reliable service. Building trust through honesty and integrity establishes a positive reputation, leading to client recommendations.
DeleteAccording to Majied et al (2012), employers usually prefer to see a fine blend of competencies in their staff, and, in addition to discipline-based knowledge and skills, adequate levels of soft skills are considered desirable for moving forward in the career.
Agreed, Soft skills encompass interpersonal qualities that shape interactions and collaborations. Unlike technical skills, they aren't necessarily taught in formal courses. They encompass traits like communication and adaptability, often gained through experience. Vital in today's job market, they offer a competitive edge beyond qualifications, enhancing career prospects and fostering effective communication and flexibility. (Pineteh, E. A. 2012). Soft skills can be enhanced through formal training or self-learning, supporting personal growth and well-rounded individuals.
ReplyDeleteAccording to Morgan (2018), soft skills are extremely important. When personal development (PD) is meaningful and engaging, these attributes may go unnoticed, but it is important to draw attention to this skill set because, in many ways, it is as important as the content of the PD. Further, soft skills aren't always taught in formal courses because they often involve personal qualities and interpersonal abilities that are best learned through practical experiences, real-life interactions, and self-awareness. These skills are context-dependent and can vary widely among individuals, making it challenging to standardise their instruction in a formal setting.
DeleteAgreed, Ahmed (2020) soft skills are fundamental to personal and professional success. They enhance communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and overall well-being. Recognizing their importance and actively working to improve these skills can lead to more effective interactions, better teamwork, and increased opportunities for growth.
ReplyDeleteSoft skills are essential in both personal and professional realms. They enable effective communication, teamwork, and adaptability, fostering positive work environments and harmonious relationships. Soft skills enhance leadership qualities and aid in conflict resolution, contributing to career growth. In today's interconnected world, these skills are valued by employers and contribute to customer satisfaction. Ultimately, mastering soft skills is integral to holistic personal development and achieving long-term success.
ReplyDeleteNice article and a good read.
Your exploration of the significance of soft skills is insightful and well-articulated. You've provided a clear definition of what soft skills entail and how they differentiate from hard skills, showcasing your understanding of the topic. Your acknowledgment of the contextual nature of soft skills adds depth to your analysis.
ReplyDeleteYour discussion on the importance of soft skills in today's competitive job market and their role in interviews and career progression is highly relevant. You've balanced the value of soft skills with a caution against overlooking hard skills. Your suggestions for improving soft skills through formal training and self-training, including e-learning, demonstrate a practical approach to personal development.
Your conclusion beautifully captures the essence of soft skills as the foundation for effective communication, collaboration, and personal growth. You've highlighted their transformative impact on both professional and personal aspects of life. Overall, your article provides a thoughtful and well-rounded perspective on the significance of soft skills in today's dynamic world.
I appreciate your comment. As you stated, in today's dynamic world, soft skills hold immense significance. As technological advancements reshape industries and global connections grow, effective communication, adaptability, problem-solving, and collaboration are crucial. These skills bridge cultural and professional divides, enabling individuals to thrive in diverse environments and navigate rapid changes. Soft skills empower innovation, teamwork, and resilience, allowing individuals to excel amidst uncertainties and complexity. They complement technical expertise, ensuring holistic success in personal relationships, professional endeavours, and the evolving challenges of the modern era.
DeleteHi Nuwan
ReplyDeleteYou have made a commendable effort shed light on importance on soft skills. The importance of soft skills in today's competitive job market is debated. Employers value quick-starters with effective communication and practical skills, which can cover hard skills shortcomings. However, prioritizing soft skills over hard skills raises concerns about not masking expertise gaps.
Thank you for your comment and for highlighting a valid point. However, emphasising soft skills over hard skills can raise concerns about potentially masking gaps in expertise. While soft skills enhance collaboration, communication, and adaptability, they should not overshadow the importance of technical proficiency. A balance between both is crucial to ensuring that individuals possess the necessary knowledge and competencies to perform tasks effectively. Neglecting hard skills could result in superficial interactions or incomplete solutions, undermining the depth of understanding and expertise required in various fields. Thus, a comprehensive approach that values both soft and hard skills is essential for achieving well-rounded competence and optimal results.
DeleteImpressive Article. soft skills are the foundation of effective interpersonal interactions, teamwork, and personal growth. They are an integral part of success in the workplace and contribute to building a well-rounded, adaptable, and emotionally intelligent workforce.
ReplyDeleteYes, indeed, soft skills serve as the cornerstone for successful interactions between people. They encompass qualities like communication, empathy, teamwork, and adaptability. Just as a strong foundation supports a well-built structure, possessing strong soft skills enables individuals to connect, communicate, and collaborate harmoniously with others. These skills enhance our ability to understand others, resolve conflicts, and work collectively towards shared goals. Without a solid foundation of soft skills, our interactions could become strained, misinterpreted, or ineffective, hindering effective communication and relationship-building.
DeleteAgreed Nuwan.
ReplyDeleteTo retain a balanced work environment it is important to develop employees' soft skills. While hard skills can be achieved by many ,it is harder to develop the soft skills which will create great work environment. Skills like negotiation,teamwork, and even the ability to listen to a coworker is important for managing people and working together.
As you stated, it is pivotal to develop personal soft skills in order to achieve a balanced work environment. Not only to have work-life balance but also to achieve advancement in career development as well. As support for my comment, Schulz (2008) said that, once employed, the success story of people who know how to master soft skills continues because of much better career opportunities. A simple fact, which can be erified in daily business life, is that employers prefer to promote staff members with superior soft skills. Good hard skills alone are not necessarily enough anymore to be a first choice when it comes to promotion.
DeleteNice article. Your examination of the importance of soft skills is both enlightening and skillfully conveyed. Your elucidation of the essence of soft skills and their distinction from hard skills is concise and illuminating, demonstrating your grasp of the subject matter. Your recognition of the contextual variability inherent in soft skills enriches the depth of your analysis.
ReplyDeleteI appreciate your thoughtful comment. Yes, indeed, developing soft skills among employees is paramount for the success of any organization. While technical expertise lays the foundation, soft skills such as communication, teamwork, adaptability, and emotional intelligence are the glue that binds a productive and harmonious workforce. These skills foster effective collaboration, enhance customer interactions, and facilitate smooth problem-solving. Moreover, they enable employees to navigate change with resilience and lead with empathy. A workforce equipped with strong soft skills not only boosts internal cohesion but also projects a positive image to clients and stakeholders. Ultimately, investing in soft skill development cultivates an environment where individuals thrive, innovation flourishes, and the organisation prospers.
Delete