We are probably at a point in the understanding of successful careers to be able to identify that an employee's soft skills are essential. According to an article from Korn Ferry, studies show that 85% of workplace success is a product of highly-developed emotional intelligence skills.
The article identifies some of these skills ( below is an excerpt from that article.).
Self-Awareness
Studies show that only about 10% to 15% of people are aware of their personal strengths, weaknesses, and goals. This knowledge is an essential foundation for emotional intelligence and makes one stand out. It’s important to also be conscious of how emotions can impact work. A Korn Ferry study found that among leaders with high emotional self-awareness, 92% had teams with high energy and high performance. In contrast, leaders low in self-awareness created negative climates for their teams 78% of the time.
Organizational Awareness
Experts say understanding internal networks and power dynamics within the workplace is crucial. Organizational awareness promotes efficiency by knowing who’s going to get things done fast, and who is going to stall the process. Experts say employees should be conscious of overt and unspoken norms and procedures within their environment. Most anyone can improve their organizational awareness by asking—and getting answers to—some workplace-related questions, including:
· Who talks to whom?
· Who holds informal power?
· Who does key information pass through?
· To whom do people listen?
Adaptability
The person who adjusts to situational needs will stand out, but this skill requires great awareness of oneself and others. Facing change head-on keeps an organization running smoothly, whether it’s learning to use AI or covering for a coworker on holiday. Experts say staying attuned to organizational change and adapting accordingly is an invaluable skill. “The past few years have taught us that change truly is constant—flexibility is what will give you the edge,” says Korn Ferry Career Coach Frances Weir.