Work Today

If there’s one thing consistent about work in 2021, it’s that it’s inconsistent. Whether you call it hybrid, WFH or the ‘new normal’ we’re living through changing times.  

So, what unites us all in such uncertainty? What ignores industry boundaries and is immune to organisational hierarchies? Whatever is going on around us, all work is still, at its heart, labour, and labour is driven by people. As such, our human, soft skills remain the rock around which all change can swim. In times of crisis or times of comfort, this never really changes.

The Role of Soft Skills

Soft skills are the glue in our working relationships. They ensure the wheels of industry are oiled by the interpersonal effectiveness of the people. These skills are grounded in the ability to gather and make the most of time together. The ability to converse and understand each other at a deep level. The ability to listen, learn and engage in social groups. Research shows the best performing teams simply ‘get each other’. We need these skills at work today more than ever.

The Soft Skills Advantage

Soft skills are where the path between humans and technology diverges. While we have taught machines to perform tasks, we are yet to create one that feels real emotion. This uniquely human trait sets us apart from technology. It means our humanity becomes our value proposition, and our soft skills a direct expression of that value.

In this era of adaptability, we shift between different working modes every day. We are constantly facing new challenges and are called upon to solve them in diverse teams. Soft skills become our coping mechanism for change. How we adapt to those around us to achieve objectives not yet established becomes a prized asset in the future of work.

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