What is the difference between hard skills and soft skills

Hard skills are quantifiable, like technical skills and knowledge. They can include things like data engineering, web analytics, or being proficient in the Adobe Creative Suite, JavaScript or accounting software like QuickBooks. 

On the other hand, soft skills relate to a person’s social and emotional intelligence. Different types of soft skills include communication and presentation skills, empathy, time management and the ability to work seamlessly in a team or resolve conflicts. 

Soft skills for workplace success

A lack of soft skills in the workplace makes it difficult for a team to interact and perform at their best, stifling productivity, innovation and growth. 

In fact, 89% of hiring managers reported that if a new hire does not work out, chances are it is because they were lacking in the necessary soft skills to succeed. 

This is why 92% of these hiring managers now believe soft skills are equally or more important than hard skills.  

Bots putting hard skills out of business 

Further confirming the value of soft skills in the workplace are the AI and automation bots making many hard skills obsolete. 

As we step over the cusp of the fourth industrial revolution, it is estimated that 47% of today’s jobs will be replaced by the functions of AI and automation. The hard skills most at threat are STEM, financial and driving skills. 
What this does mean is that creative and critical thinking skills are now the most desirable soft skills; they enable employees to complement rather than compete with the capabilities of AI and automation bots.

What does this mean for you?  

Ultimately, hiring managers look for candidates who exhibit the perfect mix of hard skills and soft skills. 

The good news is that any skill – whether it be soft or hard – can be learnt. 

To develop soft skills, sign yourself up for more teamwork, step outside your comfort zone and observe the communication styles of others. 

Most hard skills require regular practice.There are an infinite number of courses available online that allow you to dabble in the field you might be interested in.

Or perhaps your next step is to consider pursuing a higher education degree to really master those hard skills. 
Whatever it be, good luck. And remember, Career Events is here to guide you every step of the way.