Do Employers in Malaysia Prefer Hard Skills or Soft Skills?
Learn about the top skills in demand among employers in Malaysia, and how soft skills and hard skills complement each other for better career growth.
By Kimberly Chang on 2023-11-27 at 7:11 AM
Updated on 2024-09-24 at 10:03 AM
Skills in Demand Among Employers in Malaysia
In the competitive job market in Malaysia, possessing a robust set of skills is essential for landing your dream job. While hard or technical skills are skills you pick up through training, soft skills are the abilities you pick up through experience.
While technical abilities and qualifications are crucial, it's often the soft skills that set the best candidates apart from the good ones. Let's explore why soft skills are becoming increasingly valued by employers and how they complement hard skills to make you a better professional.
The Difference Between Hard Skills and Soft Skills
Before diving into why soft skills are so crucial, it's important to understand the difference between hard skills and soft skills.
Hard skills are specific, teachable abilities that can be defined and measured. These skills are often acquired through education, training, and hands-on experience. Examples include programming, data analysis, financial accounting, and proficiency in multiple languages.
They are the technical competencies required to perform specific job tasks.
On the other hand, soft skills are non-technical skills that relate to how you work. They include interpersonal skills, communication, emotional intelligence, and problem-solving abilities. Unlike hard skills, soft skills are more difficult to measure but are critical for creating a productive and harmonious work environment.
Examples of Hard Skills:
- Software development
- Graphic design
- Multi language proficiency
Examples of Soft Skills:
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Leadership
- Time management
Why Soft Skills Are in High Demand in Malaysia
As workplaces in Malaysia become more collaborative and roles more interconnected, the ability to communicate effectively and work well in a team has never been more critical. Many employers now believe that while technical skills can be taught on the job, soft skills are what truly make an employee valuable. Here are a few reasons why employees prefer soft skills:
- Enhanced Collaboration: In our multicultural and diverse country, effective communication and teamwork are essential for maintaining a productive work environment.
- Leadership Potential: Soft skills like leadership, empathy, and emotional intelligence are crucial for those aspiring to managerial roles.
- Adaptability: The ability to adapt to changing circumstances is highly valued in today's fast-paced business environment.
Employers often find that candidates with strong soft skills not only perform well in their roles but also contribute to a positive company culture, which is invaluable in the long run.
How Soft Skills Complement Hard Skills
While hard skills are essential for performing specific job tasks, soft skills help you excel in the workplace by improving your interactions with others and your ability to navigate challenges. For example, a software developer might be proficient in coding (hard skill), but without effective communication skills, they may struggle to work within a team or explain complex technical issues to non-technical teammates.
Soft skills serve as the glue that holds hard skills together, making you not just a competent worker, but a valuable team member and a strong candidate for leadership positions. In your journey to refine both skill sets, taking a moment to identify your core strengths through a quick self-assessment might align your career goals more closely with your natural abilities.
How to Improve Soft Skills for Job Opportunities in Malaysia
If you feel that your soft skills could use some improvement, there are several effective strategies you can try:
1. Attend Workshops and Training Programs
Look for workshops or online courses that focus on developing soft skills such as communication or leadership. Many local seminars or online platforms offer these workshops.
2. Practise Active Listening
Good communication starts with listening. Make a conscious effort to listen more actively in your daily interactions. This can help improve your empathy and understanding of others.
3. Engage in Team Activities
Participate in team building activities or after work group activities. These sessions can help you develop collaboration skills and build relationships with your colleagues.
4. Seek Feedback
Ask for constructive feedback from your peers or supervisors. This can provide you with insights into areas where you can improve your soft skills.
The Role of Soft Skills in Career Advancement
Mastering soft skills can open doors to new career opportunities and help you climb your career progression faster. Employees who possess strong soft skills are often seen as more versatile and are better able to handle leadership roles. They are also more likely to be entrusted with critical projects and responsibilities.
In conclusion, while hard skills are essential for landing a job, it's often the soft skills that make you stand out from the crowd. In Malaysia's evolving job market, employers are increasingly prioritising candidates who possess a strong combination of both. By focusing on developing your soft skills, you can enhance your career prospects and position yourself as a top candidate in any industry at Hiredly.
By Kimberly Chang on 2023-11-27 at 7:11 AM