Content area
Full Text
The concept of soft skills is still an evolving discipline surrounded by myths that must be busted.
"The softest things in the world overcome the hardest things in the world." -Lao Tzu
The learning and development (L&D) function has undergone a tremendous change in the 2 i st century. Gone are the days where all sectors underscore technical skills alone. Currently there is a change in the mindset of companies to highlight both hard skills and soft skills. However, there are several myths associated with soft skills.
For L&l) staff to perform effectively in the workplace, (hey must know the truths about soft skills. The mere acquisition of hard skills alone is not sufficient for employees to survive in the corporate world. In fact, what is needed is the perfect hlend of both hard and soft skills to excel as successful professionals. It's important to know the differentiations between the two types of skills, as well as bust the myths about soft skills.
Soft versus hard skills
Soft skills are the abilities required in the workplace for professional success. They are the polite and pleasing way of presenting to others and are mostly related to personality, attitude, and behavior. They are a collection of several skills and abilities related to the execution of such tasks as communicating, managing time, negotiating, writing, listening, reading, presenting, problem solving, and decision making. They are essential at every level of an organization if it is to function smoothly and successfully.
Hard skills are technical competencies and domain knowledge, while soft skills are a combination of people skills, interpersonal skills, communication skills, and emotional intelligence. Companies search for a blend of both soft and hard skills among their employees to deliver goods and services effectively to their clients. It is rightly said that people rise in organizations because of their hard skills and fall due to a dearth of soft skills.
Myths and truths
Here are 12 myths about soft skills that are running around in the minds of professionals. It is natural for these myths to exist since the concept of soft skills is still an evolving discipline. However, it is time to bust these myths with truths.
Soft skills are inborn qualities. Soft skills are not traits...