In today’s diverse workforce, the importance of soft skills has never been more pronounced. Often overshadowed by technical expertise, these interpersonal skills play a crucial role in shaping effective leadership, with implications for professional growth across all levels—from entry-level positions to executive leadership.

According to the LinkedIn Global Talent Trends Report, a staggering 89% of recruiters attribute job failures to a deficiency in soft skills. Employers are now seeking candidates who demonstrate emotional intelligence and strong communication skills, alongside their technical qualifications.

Erin Lewellen: Advocating for Change in Leadership Development

Erin Lewellen, the CEO of Tilting Futures, an organization rebranded from Global Citizen Year, is a strong advocate for the transformation of young individuals into global leaders. Under her guidance, Tilting Futures has expanded its mission to prioritize not just the knowledge students gain but also the soft skills they develop, essential for thriving within any profession.

“Every high-stakes business situation I can think of requires skilled deployment of soft skills,” said Lewellen.

Key Soft Skills for Future Leaders

Lewellen identifies three vital soft skills that up-and-coming leaders should cultivate:

1. Constructive Dissent

The ability to challenge ideas respectfully is crucial for leaders striving for innovation and improvement. Engaging in constructive discussions allows leaders to test assumptions and enhance decision-making without damaging relationships.

Lewellen emphasizes the importance of this skill: “Every ship will rise when a leader can oppose a team in a way that shows basic respect for the team and the goals of the team.”

Development Strategies:

• Practice active listening to demonstrate understanding.
• Focus discussions on issues rather than personal differences.
• Encourage dialogue by using inclusive language.
• Embrace diverse viewpoints with an open mind.

2. Adaptability

In an ever-evolving professional landscape, adaptability becomes a fundamental trait for resilience and success. Leaders must be willing to pivot in response to changing circumstances and opportunities.

Referencing the Covid-19 pandemic, Lewellen noted its lessons on adaptability: “If we had been so attached to the original single story, we would have missed the opportunity in ways we hadn’t yet imagined.”

Development Strategies:

• Adopt a growth mindset, viewing challenges as opportunities.
• Test new ideas on a small scale to build confidence.
• Be open to changing course based on new information.
• Maintain curiosity by staying updated on industry trends.

3. Strong Decision-Making

Effective leaders are defined by their ability to make sound decisions amidst complexity. This involves critical thinking, problem-solving, and recognizing when to seek input from others.

“Problem-based decisions come from strategically unpacking the issues and understanding stakeholders,” said Lewellen.

Development Strategies:

• Break down larger issues to identify root causes.
• Gather diverse perspectives to minimize blind spots in decision-making.
• Establish clear criteria for making informed choices.
• Learn from each decision to refine future judgment processes.

Lewellen leads by example, nurturing a culture where challenging ideas and open discussions are not only acceptable but encouraged. “Put your ideas on the table, discuss them, disagree, and don’t agree,” she remarks, highlighting the value of collaborative learning in developing strong leaders.