Why "Soft Skills" Should No Longer Be Called "Soft"
The term is evolving to “Professional skills” to reflect their paramount importance for career development, and Supply Chain professionals are no exception.
If machines take over the world tomorrow and replace humans, “soft skills” won't matter anymore. Since this hypothetical future is - luckily- far from happening, all professionals aspiring to grow their careers must concentrate on mastering them to stand out in the competitive corporate world. And, yes, the way you call them is essential, too.
But where did the term “soft skills” come from? In 1960, the US Army introduced the name to separate interpersonal abilities from those needed for operating machinery and weapons (hard skills). Later, the name found its way into the corporate world and became popular. However, referring to leadership, communication, and emotional intelligence (among other skills) as “soft” can give the wrong impression.
Every day, more experts are transitioning to Professional Skills as a more accurate name. Supply chain leaders are called to develop these abilities to solve complex organizational problems. The most successful professionals are not just experts in operations and analytics; they are adaptable, strategic thinkers who can lead teams, communicate effectively, and navigate complex challenges. There is nothing “soft” about that.
Here is our take on the top 3 Professional skills that are critical for a successful present and future in Supply Chain:
Adaptability: embrace change as the new business as usual
Employees with high adaptability are 2.5 times more likely to perform better and contribute more to their organization's success¹. The past few years have shown that disruption is inevitable- from global pandemics to geopolitical shifts and extreme weather events. Supply chain leaders must be prepared to pivot quickly and find solutions in unpredictable environments.
Leaders who are rigid in their approach may struggle when a key supplier shuts down unexpectedly. At the same time, an adaptable professional will proactively explore alternatives, mitigate risks, and ensure business continuity. When evaluating candidates, consider asking for examples of how they have successfully led through change, whether implementing a new system or managing a crisis.
2. Communication: fundamental yet often overlooked
Effective communication serves as the foundation of strong performance within the supply chain. Professionals in this field collaborate with multiple stakeholders—finance, sales, operations, and IT—often across different regions and time zones.
The numbers are ruthless: 70% of employers state that communication is the most desirable skill a candidate can have². No wonder this must be central to any person's integral development.
Communicating concisely and persuasively is essential for ensuring alignment and driving results. A well-crafted strategy is only effective if the team understands and supports it. Leaders must break down complex data, influence decision-makers, and provide clear direction.
During interviews, candidates can be asked to explain a supply chain challenge in simple terms; this ability to distill complexity into an engaging response showcases their communication skills.
Need help finding top supply chain talent? Our expertise lies in identifying leaders who combine technical excellence with the soft skills required to thrive in today’s dynamic environment.
3. Leadership: inspiration for work that matters
Leadership in supply chain management extends beyond mere titles; it has become a core driver of business strategy. As companies emphasize agility and resilience, supply chain leaders must inspire teams, foster innovation, and cultivate a culture of accountability.
Strong leadership requires emotional intelligence, the ability to motivate teams, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Top-level professionals must provide concrete examples of how they have led teams through uncertainty or influenced organizational change.
As the supply chain continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, organizations need leaders who can keep up with these changes. While technical expertise will always be essential, the ability to adapt, lead, and communicate effectively differentiates top talent.
Companies building their teams for the future must prioritize candidates with the “professional skills” necessary to drive innovation, collaboration, and resilience in an unpredictable world.
Need help finding top supply chain talent? Our expertise lies in identifying leaders who combine technical excellence with the soft skills required to thrive in today’s dynamic environment.
Sources:
1 McKinsey Study
2 Linkedin