Technical skills vs soft skills: What top employers really want

In the competitive landscape of talent acquisition, the debate between the value of technical skills versus soft skills is a pressing issue for employers. “In today’s fast-paced world, success in the workplace requires more than just technical expertise and knowledge” (Forbes), yet technical skills remain a critical component of many job roles. This report delves into the current preferences of top employers and seeks to unravel the intricate balance between these two skill sets.

The Value of Technical Skills

Technical skills, or hard skills, are the specific, teachable abilities that can be defined and measured. In the context of job searching, these skills are often the baseline requirements for a position. For example, a web developer must possess the ability to code in various programming languages as a fundamental job requirement. These skills are quantifiable and can be easily validated through certifications, degrees, or specific work experiences.

The importance of technical skills cannot be overstated in industries and roles where specialized knowledge is paramount. They are the foundation upon which employees can perform their job functions effectively. In sectors like banking, finance, and accountancy, technical skills are critical as they ensure that professionals can handle complex financial systems, adhere to regulatory requirements, and make data-driven decisions.

The Rise of Soft Skills

Despite the undeniable importance of technical skills, soft skills have emerged as equally—if not more—important in the eyes of many employers. Soft skills refer to personal attributes that enable someone to interact effectively and harmoniously with other people. These include communication, teamwork, adaptability, problem-solving, and leadership.

A Forbes article reveals that employers are placing a higher value on soft skills when hiring new employees (Forbes). This trend is corroborated by Indeed data, which shows that soft skills like communication are frequently referenced in job descriptions (Indeed). The emphasis on soft skills is rooted in the recognition that technical skills alone are not sufficient for success in today’s collaborative and dynamic work environments.

Balancing Technical and Soft Skills

The ideal candidate in the current job market possesses a blend of both technical and soft skills. Companies are increasingly seeking individuals who can not only perform their technical duties but also adapt, collaborate, and lead effectively. The integration of both skill sets is crucial for strengthening a company’s adaptability and for supporting a productive work culture.

Skillcycle’s blog highlights the importance of finding a balance between technical skills and soft skills at work, suggesting that the top three of 20 core skills predicted for future success are a mix of both (Skillcycle). This balance enables professionals to execute their tasks while also contributing to the overall success of their organizations.

Employer Preferences and Hiring Trends

Employers in the banking, finance, and accountancy sectors are particularly discerning when it comes to the skill sets of potential hires. They require candidates who have the technical know-how to manage financial operations but also the soft skills to navigate the complexities of a globalized market.

For instance, a finance executive must be adept at financial analysis (a technical skill) but also capable of communicating complex financial information to stakeholders in a clear and effective manner (a soft skill). The ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and to lead with emotional intelligence is becoming increasingly valuable in these sectors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, top employers are seeking a harmonious blend of technical and soft skills in their prospective employees. While technical skills form the bedrock of an employee’s ability to perform specific job functions, soft skills are indispensable for fostering a collaborative and adaptable work environment. The successful candidate in today’s job market is one who can demonstrate proficiency in both areas, thereby contributing to both the operational efficiency and the cultural vitality of an organization.

References

– Indeed. “Technical vs. Soft Skills: Similarities and Differences.” https://ca.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/technical-vs-soft-skills

– Mullane, Patrick. “Employers Want—and Will Pay For—Soft Skills. Are You Focusing on Them Enough?” Forbes. 28 October 2022. https://www.forbes.com/sites/patrickmullane/2022/10/28/employers-wantand-will-pay-forsoft-skills-are-you-focusing-on-them-enough/

– Skillcycle. “Finding a Balance: Technical Skills vs. Soft Skills at Work.” https://www.skillcycle.com/blog/finding-a-balance-technical-skills-vs-soft-skills-at-work/

– Indeed. “7 Top Soft Skills Employers Want.” https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/in-demand-soft-skills

– Forbes Advisor. “11 Essential Soft Skills In 2023 (With Examples).” https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/soft-skills-examples/