Every time I walk into the bank across the street from my office, I see this sign:

It always makes me think of the value of interpersonal skills or “soft” skills, even to jobs in which “hard” skills are so necessary.

In researching the ten sectors of the CareerKits, dozens of employers and industry professionals were consulted. Regardless of the sector or career under discussion, the importance of interpersonal skills, such as communication, customer service, problem-solving, patience and taking initiative, were routinely emphasized. Some sectors, such as Manufacturing, Construction and Hospitality, provide on-the-job training in workplace  procedures, and soft skills are considered especially important in part because they are what make an employee “trainable.” These are sectors in which entry-level employees are often able to advance with work experience under their belt and do not necessarily need more advanced credentials to take the next step up the career ladder. In these cases, it’s their dependability, follow-through and punctuality that make them eligible for better opportunities.

Communication skills, in particular, can mean the difference between being offered a job or the interviewer moving on to the next candidate. Employers want their customers or clients to feel valued, heard and respected, so they will get repeat business. When job seekers shake hands, make eye contact, speak respectfully, listen well and ask relevant questions, interviewers get a glimpse into what potential interactions with their customers might be like.

Adult Literacy programs teach soft skills all the time, though we don’t always articulate them as such. When we have students work in groups, make presentations, do a turn-and-talk, respond to classmates’ ideas or develop questions about a topic, we are teaching soft skills. When we debrief these activities, we can say, “That’s an employability skill!” and help students see the relevance of classroom procedures to their futures as workers, including their earning potential. Strengthening these skills improves the likelihood of landing a job, keeping a job and getting promoted, though lots of other factors matter too. Outside of a labor context, these skills help with almost every other facet of life, as we struggle to communicate effectively, express concerns and limit stressful encounters.

How do you discuss soft skills in your classes? How can you connect the modes of interaction you use in class to skills that employers look for in hiring? Share your ideas in the comment box below.