Soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability have become crucial factors in recruitment and human resource development. Beyond technical competencies or hard skills, interpersonal abilities play a significant role in determining an employee's success.
What are these soft skills? Read on below!
What Are Some Examples of Soft Skills in the Workplace?
According to LinkedIn's Global Talent Trends report, 92% of HR professionals say that soft skills are just as important, if not more important, than hard skills in the recruitment process.
Here are some of the most sought-after soft skills by companies across various industries:
1. Effective Communication
The ability to communicate clearly and precisely is essential in the workplace. This includes verbal communication, written communication, and non-verbal cues like body language. Employees with this soft skill can convey ideas effectively, provide clear directions, and build healthy working relationships.
2. Teamwork
Collaboration among employees is part of everyday operations in any company. The ability to work well in a team, appreciate differing opinions, and solve tasks together shows a high level of professionalism.
Employees with this skill can strengthen team synergy and create a harmonious work environment.
3. Time Management
Every task has a deadline. Employees who can prioritize, schedule, and complete tasks efficiently help the company maintain productivity.
Read Also: Parkinson's Law Time Management: Benefits and How to Apply It
4. Problem-Solving
In every job position, challenges and obstacles are inevitable. Employees with critical thinking abilities and the capability to find effective solutions add significant value to the company.
5. Leadership
Leadership is not only needed by managers. It is required at every level, especially when it comes to taking initiative, positively influencing colleagues, and setting an example in work ethics.
Employees with leadership skills are better prepared to take on responsibilities and grow with the company.
According to a Gallup survey, only one in ten employees naturally has leadership talent. However, companies that actively develop internal leadership can see a performance boost of 20-28%.
6. Adaptability
Change is constant in the workplace. Employees who are adaptable, open to new technologies or work systems, and flexible with new methods are more likely to contribute effectively in the long term.
7. Work Ethic and Professionalism
Discipline, integrity, and responsibility are part of the soft skills that shape work character.
Employees with a strong work ethic tend to be reliable and become vital assets for the company, especially in maintaining the company's reputation.
Read Also:7 Professional Ethics for Security Guards to Ensure Service and Safety
How to Develop Employee Soft Skills?
After understanding the critical soft skills, the next step is to figure out how companies can systematically encourage their development. Here are some strategies that can be implemented:
1. Soft Skill-Based Training
Offer training that focuses on communication, leadership, or time management. These programs can be conducted internally or in collaboration with external partners with expertise.
2. Mentoring dan Coaching
A one-on-one approach through mentoring programs can be an effective way to sharpen soft skills. Experienced mentors can help employees identify interpersonal weaknesses, provide constructive feedback, and encourage personal growth.
3. Regular Evaluations and Feedback
Evaluations should not only focus on technical performance but also on workplace behavior and social interactions. Structured feedback helps employees recognize areas for improvement and understand company expectations regarding work behavior.
Read Also: 3 Effective and Objective Ways to Evaluate Employee Performance
4. A Company Culture That Supports Growth
Create a work environment that values collaboration, openness, and diversity. A company’s culture significantly impacts how soft skills develop.
When a company is committed to personal development and healthy communication, employees will be motivated to grow as well.
Case Study of Companies Improving Employees' Soft Skills
Based on research from the Journal of Secretary & Business Administration, Novotel Bandung Hotel regularly accepts trainees through their On-the-Job Training (OJT) program.
To enhance non-technical abilities, the company organizes soft skills training programs such as on-the-job training, coaching, under-studies, and counseling for trainees.
The training program focuses on developing the following skills:
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Effective communication
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Basic leadership
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Teamwork relevant to operational tasks in a 4-star hotel like Novotel Bandung.
Results from the study show:
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Trainees demonstrated improved knowledge and skills relevant to their job tasks.
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Trainee performance was optimized and met company standards.
Soft skills are no longer just an added bonus in the modern workplace; they are the key to success in determining whether an employee can adapt, collaborate, and contribute fully to the company. By understanding various soft skills and strategies for their development, companies can create a high-performing workforce.
If you’re looking for employees who are not only technically skilled but also possess proven and relevant soft skills, partnering with a professional outsourcing company is a smart choice.
SOS can be your trusted partner in providing skilled and well-trained workforce solutions.
Trust SOS for Your Skilled Workforce Needs!
SOS offers Outsourcing Personnel for various industries. The workforce from SOS consists of skilled professionals who have gone through a rigorous selection process and standardized soft skills training.
With skilled employees who are both technically proficient and strong in interpersonal skills, companies can see tangible improvements in productivity.
We also understand the unique challenges each industry faces, including security and company culture, allowing us to provide precise and efficient work solutions.
Contact SOS now via WhatsApp and consult for the best workforce solutions for your company!
