The Real Career Power Play Is Developing Soft Skills

Forbes

24-03-2025

Strong soft skills empower professionals to lead with empathy, navigate change and build ... More high-performing, resilient teams.
Often undervalued or overlooked in favor of technical expertise, soft skills are increasingly essential in every profession. From entry-level careers to the C-suite, mastering soft skills opens up leadership opportunities.
Soft skills influence how you lead teams. According to a LinkedIn Global Talent Trends report, 89% of recruiters say that when a hire doesn't work out, it typically comes down to a lack of soft skills. Additionally, employers increasingly look for emotional intelligence and communication over technical credentials alone.
As the CEO of Tilting Futures, Erin Lewellen is accustomed to change and the skills it takes to lead through it. Formerly known as Global Citizen Year, the organization rebranded and expanded its mission in 2022 to create immersive learning experiences that prepare young people to become globally engaged leaders. Under Lewellen's leadership, Tilting Futures has focused not only on what students learn but also on how they grow, particularly through the development of soft skills.
'Every single high-stakes business situation I can think of absolutely requires adept deployment of soft skills,' Lewellen states.
She emphasizes three areas as critical for today's up-and-coming leaders:
The ability to professionally disagree is a powerful tool, especially for those wanting to secure a leadership role. It's not about constantly compromising; it's about engaging in constructive conversations even when opinions differ. Leaders who master this skill are able to challenge assumptions, test ideas and arrive at better decisions without damaging relationships.
Lewellen notes that disagreeing well is more than just managing conflict. It's about showing respect while challenging ideas. 'When a leader can disagree with her team in a way that shows fundamental respect for the team and for the goal at hand, all ships rise,' she explains. This skill, rooted in emotional intelligence and trust, is increasingly valued by employers who recognize that innovation depends on diverse perspectives and open dialogue.
How to develop it:
Erin Lewellen, CEO of Tilting Futures, is creating opportunities for younger generations to develop ... More a diverse leadership style.
Adaptability is key to both personal resilience and organizational success. This trait involves the willingness to shift approaches and remain open to new ideas. Adaptable leaders pivot when circumstances demand it. They anticipate and prepare for change. This mindset allows organizations to stay competitive.
This skill set is another trait Lewellen sees as non-negotiable. 'We don't live in a linear, slow-paced world,' she says. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Tilting Futures had to pivot dramatically. Rather than closing its doors, the team launched new programming that met the moment—growing its reach and impact. 'Had we become too attached to our original, single story, we would have missed opportunity in ways we hadn't yet imagined.'
How to develop it:
Strong decision-making requires critical thinking. Leaders who make sound decisions can solve complex problems, balance risks and move forward with clarity. Importantly, they also know when to involve others and when to lead decisively.
Decision-making, often overlooked as a soft skill, is the thread that ties it all together. Lewellen believes well-informed decisions come from unpacking problems strategically and understanding stakeholders. 'This skill encompasses so many others like empathy, creativity and collaboration,' she reflects.
How to develop it:
Lewellen practices these skills herself and coaches her team to do the same. She fosters a culture where leaders are encouraged to ask difficult questions, share context freely and let ideas develop over time. She urges, 'Put the idea on the table and discuss—and disagree, please disagree—so we make the best possible decision together.'