How important are “soft skills” in the workplace?

In Anthony Mersino’s book, Emotional Intelligence for Project Managers, he identifies seven benefits of possessing and using soft skills; including developing relationships to support project success, avoiding emotional breakdowns, managing conflict, making better decisions, communicating more effectively, creating high morale, and casting a vision that attracts, inspires and motivates the project team.

Buying the skills needed for a particular project or department is very tempting for senior managers. The grass often looks greener when viewed from a distance.

Career planning consists of activities and actions you take to achieve your individual career goals. It’s an ongoing process in which every technology professional should engage:

• Taking a look at your interests and abilities;
• Planning your career goals;
• Designing the action plan to achieve your goals.

When it comes to career planning your employer or supervisor may offer their support or suggestions, but it is really up to you to plan your own career. The following are a few tips to get you started: