The terms “soft skills” and “employability skills” are closely related, but there are some subtle differences
| Feature | Soft Skills | Employability Skills |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Personal attributes and interpersonal skills | Broader range of abilities for workplace success |
| Examples | Communication, Teamwork, Problem-solving | Communication, Teamwork, Problem-solving, Resume writing, Interviewing, Networking |
| Applicability | Across various jobs and industries | Job-seeking and specific work-related skills |
| Development | Life experiences, education, and training | Life experiences, education, training, and job market knowledge |
Here’s an analogy: Think of soft skills as the building blocks, and employability skills as the entire structure. Soft skills are essential for any successful professional, but employability skills take it a step further by including the specific tools and knowledge needed to navigate the job market and excel in a particular work environment.
