6 NOVEMBER2022Editor NoteWomen Possess Better Awareness & Emotional Competence providing them Upper Hand in Soft-Skills Today's business world has become a highly competitive space. The corporate landscape now has more talented professionals than opportunities owing to which there has emerged a proverbial `rat race' culture. Weather one likes it or not, professionals today strive to outperform one another. As the drive to become successful at work becomes stronger among professionals, there has been an increased focus on skill development and up-skilling. But in a scenario where every other candidate possesses the requisite skills and experience, how does one stand out? The answer is simple; we need an X factor. And one of these highly coveted skill set is `soft skills'. Possessing this X factor, i.e. mastering the art of soft skills can propel an individual to take a lead in the game is if they master soft skills. It is one facet which is seldom spoken about, yet it remains a critical asset to possess in the corporate world. Similar to factors that cannot be quantified, such as emotions or perception, soft skills are qualities that a person already possesses. In its ambit it encompasses factors such as communication, empathy, personality traits and social cues among others. But with the right training soft skills can be improved upon. Bettering one's soft skills can render individuals with a certain advantage in the workplace. While both genders require strong soft-skills, however, reports suggest that it is women who outperform men in this sector. According to a Korn Ferry study conducted across 90 countries in 2016, women outperformed men in 11 out of 12 emotional competence skills. The study concluded that when companies integrate these capabilities into the workplace, employees' needs, experiences, and talents are identified, it increases workplace satisfaction and promotes company success as well. Women also showcase a stronger sense of awareness according to several studies. It enables them to notice smaller nuances while learning about and understanding their employees and co-workers alike. This awareness helps mitigate interpersonal conflicts at work. Since the leader can observe and understand her team, it allows them to identify when an issue is developing and address it before it flares up. Needless to say, strong soft-skills can help leaders build a stronger, efficient and better performing team. The current edition of women entrepreneur magazine presents to a comprehensive list of Asian women leaders who excel at rendering soft-skills development solutions & services. These women leaders have carved a niche for themselves in the skill development industry and are helping individuals and business leaders hone their soft-skills and in turn empowering them to be more effective leaders. Read on and do let us know your thoughts. Rachita SharmaManaging Editor
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