Page 13 - Effective Communication Soft Skills Strategies For Success by Nitin Bhatnagar, Mamta Bhatnagar

Project Name: Manual for Soft Skills
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Soft Skills: Growing Importance

After reading this chapter, you will be familiar with:
• Concept of soft and hard skills
• Categories of skills
• The importance of soft skills
• Process of skill acquisition
• Soft skills education and training

INTRODUCTION

It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most
intelligent, but the one most responsive to change.
—Charles Darwin

Darwin’s words are still as relevant today as when they were first expressed
during the early phase of the 19th century. Indeed, his words are more rele-
vant now than ever before. The explosion of modern information tech-
nology poses a great challenge to the youth. As a result there is an increasingly
emergent competitive global picture. In order to prosper and succeed in the
era of technological advance, individuals, and organizations have to be ready
to develop and adopt new skills and approaches. Otherwise, the chances of
their survival may be at stake. Soft skills are the emotional sine qua non of
psychological survival. Hence, they are the prerequisites to anyone who seeks a
job. Soft skills also represent one of the fundamental attributes that the
new knowledge-based economy seems to be demanding of the employers,
employees, and organizations.
The educational scene in India is currently witnessing some upheavals. The
challenges and demands that are placed on students are voluminous. They
experience psychological ramifications due to the lack of skills. These skills

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