Why is it Considered More Important to Have Social Skills than to Have Technical Skills?

One type of skill is not necessarily more important than the other, but what is imperative is to have a balance of the two. For the past couple of decades, the focal point of education has been on STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), so it is evident that tech skills are essential. Possessing these displays that you are smart and able to learn, which can open many doors for you.

However, if you really want to grow as a person, improve your network, or be a leader, you will have to develop your right brain and work on social/softer skills. Technical skills can only get you so far up the ladder, while social skills give you the extra strength that can bring you much higher. According to research conducted by Harvard University, The Carnegie Foundation, and Stanford Research Institute, technical skills and knowledge account for 15% of the reason you get a job, keep a job, or advance in a job. In contrast, social skills account for the other 85% of your job success.

The reason why companies value social skills is that they display one’s ability to gain the trust of clients and make connections with others in a way that can benefit the business. Studies show that social connections play a central role in fostering a sense of purpose and well-being in the workplace. They also impact the bottom line: Effective management of social capital within organizations facilitates learning, increases employee retention, reduces burnout, sparks innovation, and improves employee and organizational performance. So, to summarize, technical skills do play a significant role in attaining and maintaining a position, however social skills are very important as they have a huge influence on how effectively a company runs.

Make it a great day and remember to always NetWorkWise