Juliet Madamombe

It is remarkable how rapidly job-seekers forget that qualifications alone are
insufficient to secure employment in a world where job-seekers are continuously clamouring for opportunities.

In addition to degrees and certificates, there is an essential element of professional success that is frequently disregarded: soft skills.

The efficient and effective completion of tasks, as well as the development of strong relationships and the enhancement of your likability in the workplace, are all contingent upon these capabilities.

Employers are progressively seeking employees who demonstrate accountability and responsibility. Accountability encompasses not only the completion of assigned duties but also the assumption of responsibility for the outcomes. A strong commitment to the organisation’s success is demonstrated by employees who proactively identify potential issues and resolve them before they escalate. Well-developed soft skills are distinguished by this proactive approach.

The significance of ethical conduct and accountability is emphasised in a recent study conducted by Jha and Singh (2023) among the top management teams of Indian organisations. The study emphasised the importance of soft skills, including integrity and ethical discernment, to effectively navigate the intricate dynamics of the workplace. Ethical behaviour is not merely a trending term; it is the foundation of a productive work environment. When employees demonstrate honesty and integrity, they earn the trust of their employers and colleagues. Trust is established through consistent ethical conduct, rather than solely through statements. Innovation and creativity, which are frequently regarded as inherent qualities, can also be encouraged and improved. An employee who consistently develops innovative solutions and generates novel concepts can make a substantial contribution to the organisation’s expansion. For example, a marketing professional who develops a unique campaign that resonates with a target audience can distinguish the company from its competitors, thereby enhancing the company’s profile and underscoring their indispensable role.

In any organisation, effective communication is essential. Communication skills are essential, whether they entail the ability to articulate ideas in meetings, compose concise emails, or actively attend to a colleague’s concerns. A project manager who is capable of effectively communicating complex project specifications ensures that all parties are in agreement, thereby preventing misunderstandings and facilitating collaboration.

In today’s fast-paced work environments, the ability to adjust to changing circumstances is highly regarded. Employees who are capable of adapting and embracing new challenges with speed are distinguished. In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, employees who were able to rapidly adapt and maintain productivity levels were invaluable, as they ensured business continuity and underscored their resilience.

Empathy, a fundamental aspect of emotional intelligence (EQ), enables employees to comprehend and empathise with the emotions of others. This ability is essential for cultivating a supportive work environment, and establishing strong interpersonal relationships. Emotionally intelligent employees are capable of effectively managing their own emotions,
and navigating the emotions of others, resulting in improved collaboration and more effective conflict resolution. Morale and productivity can be enhanced by an empathic manager who actively listens to employees’ concerns and provides assistance.

Organisations that emphasise the cultivation of soft skills cultivate a more productive and engaged workforce. These critical skills can be improved by employees through training programmes that emphasise ethical behaviour, collaboration and communication. Furthermore, a workplace culture that prioritises and incentivises soft skills can result in increased job satisfaction and decreased turnover.

Soft skills are the glue that unites a successful profession, while technical qualifications are essential. Ethics, responsibility, innovation, communication, adaptability, and empathy are not merely desirable qualities; they are essential components of professional excellence. At an organisational level, unethical behaviour is frequently precipitated by an excessive emphasis on systemic organisational issues and bottom-line results (Jha and Singh, 2023).

Unethical practices may be implemented by employees who are under severe pressure to meet business objectives with inadequate resources. Therefore, the ethos of an organisation can be substantially influenced by its leaders. By demonstrating and rewarding ethical behaviour, top executives send a powerful message to the entire organisation, motivating employees to emulate their actions.

Consequently, next time you prepare for a job interview or consider your career progression, it is important to remember that soft skills are not merely an additional advantage; they are indispensable to your professional toolkit. By investing in these skills, you can create a competitive advantage in the job market and establish the groundwork for a successful and fulfilling career. Employers, in turn, should acknowledge and cultivate these attributes to preserve a competitive advantage in the ever-changing business landscape.

*Juliet Madamombe is an accomplished entrepreneur, business consultant, and writer. She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration degree through the University of Namibia. E-mail address:jtmadamombe@gmail.com.