A Growing Demand for Workplace Soft Skills Training: Employees Eager for Emotional Intelligence Development
A recent study from Deloitte has found that workers are placing a high value on “soft skills” training, such as teamwork, communication, and leadership, with 65% of respondents citing teamwork as the most important skill. This is a significant shift from the traditional focus on technical skills, such as coding or data analysis, which came in fourth place with 54% of respondents.
“The hunger for these soft skills is undeniable, and it’s not just reserved for top executives,” said Anthony Stephan, chief learning officer at Deloitte U.S. “Organizations that overemphasize technical training at the expense of these human capabilities could be impeding innovation and leaving employees ill-equipped to lead teams, adapt to market opportunities, and fully harness the potential of technology.”
As the demand for soft skills training grows, employers must adapt to meet the needs of their employees. According to Stephan, the key is to listen to employees and let them dictate what they need to be successful. “Leaders at all levels should be more intentional than ever about teaching and learning from each other – across generations, channels, and locations – in the flow of everyday work.”
Companies can ensure that their employees receive the soft skills training they need by offering structured programs such as mentorship and social events that foster personal connections. This is particularly important for younger workers, with 94% of survey respondents citing the need for better “human skills” to be successful in the modern workplace.
It’s clear that the traditional focus on technical skills is no longer enough, and employers must prioritize the development of soft skills to remain competitive in a rapidly changing world. As Stephan notes, “Apprenticeships sit at the heart of developing the soft skills of the next generation.” As the demand for soft skills training continues to grow, it’s clear that employers must adapt to meet the needs of their employees if they hope to succeed.
