Soft Skills for Developers : Pre IWD Kisii 2025 Event

Lightning talk on Soft Skills for Devs

1. Ms.Teresa K. Abuya Bsc. Information Technology-JKUAT Msc.Computer Systems-JKUAT PhD Information Technology-JKUAT Understanding Soft Skills

2. Introduction to Soft skills Definition Soft skills are those intangible yet incredibly powerful abilities that truly sets individuals apart. Tech projects are rarely a solo endevour. Team work is needed to seamlessly bring diverse perspectives together to innovate. Fostering collaboration-brings out strong teams that bring projects to a success 15% job success comes from technical skills and knowledge(Hard Skills) 85% job success comes from having well developed soft skills and people skills(Soft Skills )

3. Complementing Technical Expertise with Human Skills In the tech industry , soft skills are just as crucial as technical expertise. Here's how the Career Sweet Spot diagram applies to tech professionals:

4. Passion (Curiosity & Drive to Innovate) Passion in tech is fueled by a desire to solve problems, create new solutions, and improve technology. Soft skills like resilience, adaptability, and emotional intelligence help tech professionals stay motivated despite challenges. Example: A software engineer passionate about AI will thrive if they are also open to collaboration and continuous learning. Skills (Technical Expertise & Communication) Hard skills like programming, cybersecurity, and data analysis are critical, but soft skills bridge the gap between knowledge and impact. Teamwork, active listening, and clear communication help tech professionals convey ideas, debug issues collaboratively, and align with business goals. Example: A developer with strong coding skills but poor communication may struggle to explain technical details to stakeholders or collaborate with non-tech teams.

5. Opportunity (Networking & Industry Trends) The tech world evolves fast—recognizing opportunities requires problem-solving, networking, and adaptability. Soft skills help professionals build relationships, negotiate roles, and adapt to new trends like AI, blockchain, or cloud computing. Example: A cybersecurity analyst who actively engages in industry events, mentors others, and builds a strong network is more likely to land leadership roles. Sweet Spot (Career Success in Tech) A successful tech career happens when passion, skills, and opportunities align. Soft skills help tech professionals collaborate across teams, present ideas effectively, manage projects, and seize new opportunities. Example: A UX designer who is passionate about user experience, skilled in design, and good at empathizing with users and presenting ideas will stand out in the industry.

6. Essential Soft Skills Emotional Intelligence -allows you to navigate workspace dynamics gracefully understanding and managing your emotions while empathizing with others Adaptability -Tech landscape is ever evolving, being adaptable means staying open to new ideas, learning continuously and pivoting when necessary. Leadership – It’s not just about being in charge but about influence, vision, and inspiring others. Building Personal Brand – Establish your unique value in the industry through credibility and visibility. Communicating Effectively – Express ideas clearly and confidently in verbal, written, and non-verbal forms. Mentorship Opportunities – Engage in continuous learning by both mentoring others and seeking guidance.

7. Teamwork – Work collaboratively with diverse teams to achieve shared goals. Positioning Yourself for Greatness – Strategically align skills and opportunities to advance in your career. Body Language – Use non-verbal cues like posture and eye contact to enhance communication. Decision Making – Analyze situations critically and make informed choices under pressure. Self-Motivation – Stay driven and focused without constant external encouragement. Creativity & Problem-Solving Skills – Innovate and think critically to tackle challenges effectively. Common sense- You look at what others have said or done and figure out how you can take the person from where they are to accept your idea.

8. Why soft skills For employment Drives career advancement Peace of mind Foster innovation Mitigate burn outs Builds stronger client relationships Reduce miscommunication and errors Build user centric development Ensure adaptability in a fast paced industry Bridge the gap between technical and non-technical stakeholders Improves problem solving efficiency Enhances teams collaboration

9. SOFT SKILLS IS A CONTINOUS PROCESS OF LEARNING AND GROWTH

10. Soft Skills in Tech The Key to Success in Technology Roles Definition of Soft Skills They are attributes that facilitate effective interactions with others, encompassing qualities such as communication, emphathy and problem-solving. Unlike hard skills which are technical capabilities, soft skills are pivotal in building relationships and fostering collaboration in workplace.

11. Importance of Soft Skills Soft skills play a crucial role in professional settings as they enhance teamwork, collaboration, and communication. Employers increasingly prioritize these attribute as they contribute to positive work culture, employee satisfaction and overall organizational success Self-management skills The jobs of tomorrow reflect the adoption of new technologies and increasing demand for new products and services. But they also showcase the continuing importance of human interaction in the new economy through roles in marketing, sales and content production and other positions that require "soft" communication skills. Workers are increasingly looking to learn personal development and self-management skills, Coursera found.

12. Team Dynamics and collaboration A significant amount of time in tech roles involves teamwork, even for those who may work independently. Effective communication, emphathy, and conflict resolution skills are crucial for creating a harmonious work environment, leading to more innovative solutions and successful project outcomes Employer’s Perspective Why Employers Value Soft Skills Employers recognize that soft skills enhance productivity and foster collaboration amongst team members. These attributes enable employees to share knowledge effectively, mentor colleagues and navigate challenges with a positive attitude making them indispensable in achieving organizational goals

13. Company Culture and Inclusivity A strong company culture promotes teamwork and collaboration . Soft skills like empathy and communication help build a diverse and inclusive environment, enhancing employee satisfaction and retention. Companies that prioritize soft skills in their hiring processes often experience improved morale and productivity, fostering innovation and creativity and their teams Relevance of Soft Skills in Tech Impact On Tech Roles Tech professionals now require more than technical expertise. Soft skills such as problem-solving, resourcefulness and critical thinking are vital in addressing challenges that arise during projects. Professionals who exhibit strong soft skills are more adaptable, ensuring they can work efficiently in fast paced environments, resulting in higher quality outcomes

14. Essential Soft Skills for Tech Workers 1.Communication Skills : This facilitates collaboration within teams.Verbal and non-verbal and written skills are needed to convey ideas clearly 3.Critical Thinking: Analytical thinking is vital in tech where professionals must solve complex problems innovatively.Developing critical thinking skills aloows individuals to approach challenges cratively,recognizing tredns and patterns that may be overlooked . 2.Emphathy : This fosters understanding among team members, enhancing collaboration and support. The ability to view issues from others perspective is essential for creative, positive, productive environment

15. Essential Soft Skills for Tech Workers 4.Organization : Strong organizational skills are critical in managing tasks and deadlines in tech projects. An organized approach prevents important details from falling through the cracks and improve efficiency and productivity 6. Resourcefulness : Enables workers address challenges swiftly and creatively using available resources 5.Problem solving : This Complements critical thinking as tech professionals must navigate emerging challenges. The ability to view issues from various angles facilitates innovative solutions driving projects success 6. Time Management : Essential in fast paced tech environments with strict deadlines. Tech professionals must prioritize tasks and strategize effectively to meet their responsibility while maintaining quality outcomes

16. Recommended Reading : Books like “soft skills”: the software developers life manual”by John Sonmez and “The Softer side of Leadership’ by Dr.Eugene Habecker can enhance soft skills. These resources provide practical insights and strategies vital for workplace success Online Courses and resources: Platforms such as Udemy,coursera and Team Treehouse etc offer numerous courses aimed at developing soft skills. These courses provide hands-on experiences and knowledge tailored to various professionals needs. Finding a Mentor : A mentor can significantly contribute to your soft skills development by providing guidance and feedback. Choose someone who is engaged and willing to share their experience to help you grow. Improving Soft Skills

17. Other Most Valued Soft Skills

18. Platforms to access soft skills Ajira Digital platform: Offers training in a range of modules including basic computer skills, web development,data analysis,mobile app development, financial markets, trading modules,cyber security.Sites for online jobs: upwork.com, fiverr.com, remotask,toloka,u-text Google Developers:Hands on workshosp for tech skills like programming,events,talks,and project building activities in-person and online,develop solutions for local problems,advance skills,career and network Women Tech Makers: Build a world where women thrive in Technology, events organizer, network with others in communities, bring tech to our communities She Code: Helps to close education gap between girls and boys.Girls access the site for free and learn coding skills Data Science Skills The Youth café: Building your brand online,social media, google ads Join any tech training group whether online or physical.