Soft skills are personal attributes, interpersonal skills, and social attitudes that enable individuals to interact effectively and harmoniously with others in the workplace and beyond. They include traits such as communication, teamwork, adaptability, problem-solving, emotional intelligence, leadership, work ethic, and time management
. Unlike hard skills, which are technical and job-specific abilities acquired through training or education, soft skills are more about how people relate to others and manage their own behavior and emotions. They are transferable across roles and industries and are crucial for collaboration, leadership, and career success
. Examples of soft skills include:
- Communication (speaking and listening effectively)
- Problem-solving and critical thinking
- Creativity and innovation
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Work ethic and reliability
- Emotional intelligence, including empathy and self-awareness
- Teamwork and leadership
Soft skills are increasingly valued by employers because they contribute to a productive and positive work environment and are essential for handling change and complex social interactions
. Developing soft skills often involves practice, feedback, and self-awareness rather than formal training
. In summary, soft skills are the essential interpersonal and personal qualities that complement technical skills and help individuals succeed in professional and everyday life