Why should I learn soft skills?

Soft skills can be useful in almost every career, and in many jobs, they’re a requirement. Having interpersonal, communication, or problem-solving skills can help you better communicate with coworkers and business partners and may help you stand out in the job market.

How long does it take to learn soft skills?

The amount of time it takes to learn soft skills depends on which skills you’re learning and the type of program you choose. A course may take you a few weeks, while earning a degree in a field like communications may take several years. Your foundation of soft skills may also impact how long it takes you to grow them.

How hard is it to learn soft skills?

The difficulty of learning soft skills depends on how strong your soft skills currently are. For example, if you are new to leadership roles, you may find it harder to learn than someone who has extensive leadership experience.

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What are soft skills?

Soft skills are the non-technical skills necessary to think clearly and collaborate well with others in the workplace. Examples include communication, writing, teamwork, critical thinking, problem-solving, adaptability, time management, and leadership.

Most jobs that require you to work with other people rely on employees with soft skills. Careers in leadership and management, social work, and public relations rely especially on soft skills.

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Use the knowledge and skills you have gained to drive impact at work and grow your career.

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Choosing the right soft skills programs for you

If you want to develop your soft skills, choosing the right educational path is important. You can take courses, enroll in a certificate or executive education program, or earn a degree.

Courses

Courses are short programs that are sometimes free or offered at a reduced price. To develop your soft skills, you could take courses on people management, leadership, and teamwork.

Certificates

A certificate in a soft skill like leadership can help you demonstrate your abilities to future employers. These programs are sometimes more extensive than a course and deliver a credential that you can add to your résumé.

Executive education programs

Executive education programs are best suited to current or aspiring managers who want to upskill. An executive education program in people and team management could help you develop essential qualities to improve your current workplace.

Degrees

A bachelor's degree in communication or liberal studies is a great way to hone soft skills like critical thinking or written and spoken communication. These programs typically take four years of full-time study to complete.

Jobs in soft skills

Building soft skills can help you in various careers. However, there are certain careers in which these skills are especially important.