Hard Skills are those competences related to specific technical knowledge to perform a certain activity or job. And Soft Skills are those related to personal and interpersonal skills.
Digital and technological disruption, and now Generative AI, are a fact. This technological revolution is causing a global transformation around the world on a large scale and at high speed, to which organisations and employees cannot be indifferent.
In today’s business world,skills are more crucial than ever. As organisations evolve and adapt to new technologies and trends, the ability of employees to learn and apply new skills becomes a key determinant of an organisation’s success. Skills refer not only to technical ability, but also to soft skills such as communication, teamwork and problem solving. This is why adaptability has become an essential skill – employees who can learn quickly and adapt to new tools or processes become an invaluable resource.
Their role in innovation
Skills also play a key role in innovation. Companies that foster an environment where employees can develop and share their skills tend to be more creative and find innovative solutions to market challenges. Collaboration between teams with diverse skills can generate fresh ideas and unique approaches that can differentiate a company from its competitors.
In addition, investing in employee skills development can improve talent retention. When companies offer training and development opportunities, employees feel valued and motivated. This not only reduces turnover, but also creates a positive work environment where employees are more engaged and satisfied with their work.
Finally, in a world where competition is fierce, companies that prioritise skills development are better positioned to face the challenges of the future. The ability to adapt and evolve is essential to survive in an ever-changing marketplace. Companies that invest in the training and development of their employees not only improve their internal performance, but also build a strong reputation.
From productivity and innovation to talent retention, the right skills can make a difference to an organisation’s overall performance. It is therefore critical that companies recognise the importance of investing in the skills development of their employees to ensure a prosperous and sustainable future. Finding the key to striking the balance between attracting, retaining and empowering talent will be fundamental, leading to a new paradigm.
Today, more than ever, there is much to learn and unlearn in this fast-changing environment. Talent managers play a key role, not only in attracting talent but also in developing it internally. It is an exciting challenge that I am fortunate to be a direct witness to, thanks to being part of Telefónica Educación Digital, where we are dedicated to precisely that: accompanying companies and people in the evolution of their capabilities, both in soft skills and hard skills.
