Management Summary
Soft skills are the new hard skills in a world where co-operation wins and is the only chance to master the existing challenges.
In view of this development, companies need to rethink their selection criteria when filling management roles and focus much more strongly on these skills in development programmes.
However, rethinking management roles also means that we need to rethink careers. Flexible paths, diversity of experience and alternative development opportunities are required.
For your own development, this means focussing on the development of your own personality. This also includes transforming blocking beliefs and thus unlocking up to 80% of additional potential.
The challenges of our time - whether in business, society or survival on our planet - can only be overcome through cooperation. In this environment, skills such as communication, heart intelligence, the ability to inspire, empathy and the ability to deal with conflict and adapt are more crucial than ever. The previous "soft skills" are becoming "hard skills" and are making a lasting difference in shaping and leading collaborations or ecosystems.
What does this mean for the selection and development of managers?
Leadership - Personality Decides
In view of this development, companies need to rethink their selection criteria when filling management roles. Sales records and technical expertise are receding into the background; personality and the new "hard skills" are decisive.
In addition, development programmes should focus much more strongly on these skills and promote personal development in a protected environment through coaching and mentoring programmes.
What does this mean for career paths?
Flexible career paths
However, rethinking leadership roles also means that we have to rethink careers. Away from horizontal thinking and the premise that a career is only possible with management responsibility in the traditional sense. Towards diversity of experience and alternative development opportunities for specialists.
Companies should organise career paths more flexibly and enable alternative development paths that include leadership in lateral roles or project-based responsibilities.
What does the increasing importance of soft skills mean for your own personal development?
Focus on personal development
All of us, not just managers, should focus our development on strengthening our own personality and tapping into hidden potential. This also requires the courage to transform blocking beliefs. This works best in a safe space, such as a coaching session.
Conclusion: Soft skills are the new hard skills.
Soft skills are the new hard skills in a world where co-operation wins and is the only chance to master the existing challenges.
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