THE ROLE OF SOFT SKILLS IN ENHANCING EMPLOYABILITY: A STUDY OF THEIR IMPACT ON JOB MARKET SUCCESS IN THE MODERN WORKFORCE

Abstract

Background: In the modern workforce, soft skills are increasingly recognized as essential for employability and career success. Skills such as communication, teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence are often seen as equally important, if not more so, than technical abilities. Despite their recognized significance, the specific impact of soft skills on job market outcomes has not been thoroughly explored, especially in the context of the evolving job market dynamics.Objective: The primary objective of this study is to analyze the role of soft skills in enhancing employability and their impact on job market success. The research aims to assess how soft skills influence career progression and the ability to secure and retain employment in the modern workforce.Methods: An online survey was conducted among 184 participants from various professional backgrounds to gather both quantitative and qualitative data on the significance of soft skills in their careers. The survey covered key areas such as communication, teamwork, leadership, emotional intelligence, time management, and problem-solving. Respondents were asked to assess their own soft skill levels, the perceived impact of these skills on their job market success, and the challenges they faced in applying them in the workplace. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics for quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative responses.Results: The findings reveal that soft skills are highly valued in the modern job market. Over 80% of participants reported that communication skills significantly contributed to their employability, while more than 75% cited teamwork and problem-solving as key to their career progression. Leadership abilities and emotional intelligence were also identified as important factors in securing job opportunities and advancing in their careers. However, challenges in developing and applying these skills were noted, particularly in highly technical fields where soft skills are often overshadowed by technical expertise.Conclusion: This study highlights the critical role that soft skills play in enhancing employability and contributing to job market success. The majority of participants reported significant benefits from possessing strong soft skills, with communication, teamwork, and leadership emerging as particularly important. Despite their importance, there is a need for more structured programs to help individuals develop and refine these skills. Future research should explore the long-term impact of soft skills on career advancement and investigate strategies for integrating soft skills training into educational and professional development programs.

Key words: Soft Skills, Employability, Job Market Success, Communication, Teamwork, Leadership, Emotional Intelligence, Career Progression, Professional Development.