Soft skills: the overlooked qualities now in high demand in recruitment

Soft skills are a combination of psychosocial qualities and social abilities. They determine how we react to a particular situation, interact with others, and manage and organize our tasks. In simple terms, they are the skills that help us effectively interact with others.

Historically, employers thought soft skills were redundant and did not attribute to an employee's efficacy. This perception has changed over time, and these skills are now highly valued. Studies show that the demand for workers possessing these skills has been consistently on the rise since the 1980s.

Moreover, scientists speculate that with the imminent advent of artificial intelligence and job automation, there will be an even more acute need for soft skills in job candidates.

Interpersonal competencies, or soft skills, are a great reflection of one's personality. They not only demonstrate how well a person interacts with others but also provide insight into their character. Some examples of soft skills include:

· Ability to work under stress

· Time management

· Logical thinking

· Empathy

· High personal culture

· Eagerness for development

· Patience

· Conflict resolution

· Affable nature

· Creativity

· Positive attitude

· Assertiveness

· Innovative thinking

· Effective communication

· Open-mindedness

· Dedication

· Quick learning.

Unlike hard skills, soft skills are somewhat difficult to quantify and assess. Hard skills are defined, and their acquisition can be evidenced through tests, certificates, and diplomas. These skills can easily be measured and assessed, for instance, during a job interview via test or task completion.

Each job has a certain set of hard skills that are a prerequisite for successful performance. For example, lacking a driving license would bar one from being a bus driver; similarly, without knowledge of French, one cannot become a translator. Here are some instances of hard skills:

· Functional foreign language (level B2/C1)

· Proficiency in programming languages, like JavaScript or Python

· Holding a type B driver's license

· Command over MS Office applications

· Managing social media profiles

· Familiarity with computer and office equipment

· Knowledge of specific industries, such as media or finance

· Capable of operating a cash register and payment terminal

· Skills in photo editing

· Undertaken a technical drawing course

· Ability to interpret technical documentation

· Proficiency in creating financial reports

· Knowledge of SEO principles.

Soft skills are highly beneficial, with some even being essential for specific roles. for example, individuals working under time pressure need task-related competencies and the ability to think logically even under stressful conditions.

Managers should possess team-playing abilities, be open and friendly, and, most importantly, excel in decision-making. Therefore, one can conclude that hard skills aren't always enough for a worker to be effective.

You can enhance your soft skills through the proper training. These are typically centered around introspective practices, like analyzing your own experiences and behaviors and consistently interacting with others.

You can take advantage of numerous available dedicated courses to develop these skills. These courses can be in-person and online and are often conducted by psychotherapists and psychologists. Usually organized in groups, they involve various scenarios and activities to aid in identifying inappropriate behaviors in group settings and cultivate interpersonal skills.