Professional life is a complex maze of challenges and opportunities. It is not just about what you know but how you apply it and interact with others. Soft skills, also known as interpersonal or people skills, are the essential qualities that enable individuals to navigate this maze effectively.

In a world where technical proficiency is essential, soft skills provide the balance that makes an employee not just competent but extraordinary. The good thing is that employees are more than just some who benefit from these skills. Employers find teams with strong interpersonal skills more productive, happier, and easier to manage. This is why educational institutions and corporate training programs are now making soft skills a mandatory part of their curricula.

Recent research from Harvard Business Review, which analyzed nearly 5,000 job descriptions, reveals a shifting landscape in recruitment. Companies now place less emphasis on traditional leadership capabilities when scouting for top-tier leaders, including new CEOs. Instead, they prioritize a standout qualification: great social skills.

Need more proof? According to the Future of Jobs report by the World Economic Forum, by the year 2025, skills such as complex problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, people management, and emotional intelligence will be recognized as crucial skill sets in the professional world.

In summary, the importance of soft skills in the professional environment has transcended being a complement to technical skills, elevating their status to that of a critical asset. Their key role in individual career advancement and broader organizational success makes them essential in the multifaceted world of modern professions. Recognition of this importance is not only advantageous but crucial for navigating the complexities of today's work environments.With the help of KTSoftSkills project co-funded by the European Commission, leading organisations such as University of Bologna, Jagielllonian University, Sopu Academy, Helsinki Think Company, ASTP and NETVAL came together to boost up collaboration skills for more innovative Europe.  Don’t forget to follow the project outcomes on the project’s blog, LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter)

‍