Why employers must prioritise developing their people today
Most organisations understand that to succeed, they must develop their people. But of course, this means an investment of time and money which leaves many organisations opting for the least disruptive and most cost-effective training.
Coupled with the buzz surrounding digital transformations and the increasing role of automation, the need for upskilling in essential skills is often being overlooked. But at what cost to organisations and economies?
Recent research found that a lack of soft skills building opportunities – which include communication, problem solving, teamwork and leadership skills – is costing £22.2bn a year in the UK. According to the research by social enterprise Skills Builder Partnership in liaison with the CIPD, KPMG and Edge Foundation, people with higher levels of essential skills experience improved social mobility, employment, earnings, job satisfaction and life satisfaction.
As organisations navigate the complexities of the modern workplace, the value of soft skills cannot be underestimated. By investing in soft skills training for their employees, organisations can cultivate a strong workforce that's not only technically proficient but also emotionally intelligent, adaptable to constant change, and able to collaborate effectively.
So what are the benefits of soft skills training and why should organisations prioritise investing in the development of their people?
1. Enhanced communication: Effective communication is the backbone of any successful organisation. Soft skills training equips employees with the tools to communicate clearly, concisely, and professionally, leading to increased efficiency and reduced misunderstandings.
2. Improved teamwork and collaboration: Soft skills training fosters a spirit of collaboration and cooperation, helping employees work together harmoniously and efficiently. This ultimately leads to better problem-solving, decision-making, and innovation.
3. Increased emotional intelligence: Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognise, understand, and manage one's emotions and those of others. Soft skills training helps employees develop this crucial skill, enabling them to better navigate interpersonal relationships and work with colleagues from diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
4. Greater adaptability: Change is an inevitable part of the modern business world. Soft skills training empowers employees to embrace change and adapt to new circumstances, ensuring that organisations remain agile and resilient in the face of uncertainty.
5. Enhanced leadership capabilities: Strong leaders are essential to the success of any organisation. Soft skills training can help employees develop effective leadership qualities, such as empathy, strategic thinking, and the ability to inspire and motivate others.
6. Higher employee engagement and satisfaction: Employees who receive soft skills training are more likely to feel valued, confident, and engaged in their work. This can lead to increased job satisfaction, higher retention rates, and a more positive workplace culture.
7. Reduced workplace conflict: Soft skills training teaches employees how to manage conflict constructively, promoting open communication and fostering a more harmonious working environment.
8. Boosted productivity and performance: When employees are equipped with strong soft skills, they are better able to navigate the workplace and perform their duties effectively. This leads to increased productivity and better overall performance.
9. Greater customer satisfaction: Employees who possess strong soft skills are more adept at understanding and meeting the needs of customers, resulting in increased satisfaction and loyalty.
10. A more inclusive work environment: Soft skills training promotes empathy, understanding, and respect for diverse perspectives and backgrounds, helping to create a more inclusive and supportive work environment for all.
The benefits of soft skills training are numerous and far-reaching and will ultimately lead to greater efficiency, innovation, and overall success for those organisations that embrace such development.
The challenge remains however for many organisations to get serious about how well they want to develop their people. Instead of focusing on the short-term effect of dedicating time and money to training, they should step back and evaluate the long-term benefits.
As the world of work continues to evolve, it's crucial for organisations to recognise the importance of soft skills training and prioritise it as a key component of their talent development strategy.
