Why Soft Skills Are Important In The Workplace

We’re approaching a new way of working, a ‘digital’ way of working many are predicting. We’ve analysed the jobs in demand and the technical skills of which employers will be looking for in their current and future hires. Soft skills are just as valuable and necessary in a new position. 


Why soft skills matter 


Just like technical skills, employees can improve and develop them. However, with soft skills, these are seen as natural qualities which you are born with. This may be the natural ability to communicate or lead effectively. For those who seek a lasting and successful career in any organisation, will need to assess their current interpersonal skills, and areas where they can develop. 

Those with previous experience will understand the need to adapt to ever-changing working environments and teams. For those just beginning, enhancing your performance and credibility in any position requires evaluating and polishing their soft skills. This will lead to better performance, more confidence and career growth. 


Hard skills more valuable than soft skills?


Hard skills are teachable skills which are teachable and measurable. These include: writing, reading or the ability to use new software’s and programs. These are important because with previous knowledge on a certain software’s, may increase your chances of a new opportunity. 

Hard skills are valuable because as a result of being experienced and knowledgeable, an employer will not have to worry about training their new recruit. 


Examples of both hard and soft skills


An employee with the soft skills that will appeal to an employer, may consist of:
 

  • Problem solving abilities 
  • Communication skills 
  • Leadership qualities 
  • Collaborative 
  • Interpersonal skills 


Employees that have the necessary soft skills can enhance their productivity and performance by possessing hard skills such as:
 

  • Marketing skills (familiar with various programs and tools) 
  • Analytical skills 
  • Content creation skills 
  • IT skills 
  • Design (Adobe) skills 



Highlighting your soft and hard skills in an interview 


The interview is a great opportunity to present your soft skills and technical capabilities. Present a portfolio of your previous work and clearly list all of the software’s you are familiar with and comfortable using. 

By knowing which skills matter most and listing the achievements to prove them, employers will waste no time presenting you with opportunities. 


Employers value soft skills 


Organisations looking to build long term success not only require employees with technical expertise, but also a collaborative workforce. If a team consists of talented developers, however the communication isn’t effective, the chances of leading a successful project isn’t as high. 

It is important for employers to onboard employees who they feel can not only match the technical requirements, but who also understand the company culture and can bring a positive feeling to the workplace. Soft skills are significant while searching for new recruits to build a positive and productive workplace. 

 

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