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In the corporate world, “power skills” and “hard skills” get thrown around frequently, especially since many employers seek these when recruiting people. But what’s the difference between these? What exactly does having these skills even mean, and is having more traits of a particular skill set more advantageous than the other? Let’s look into these a little further and discuss them.
Power Skills
Power skills are traits that allow you to separate yourself from other people and technology. Also known as soft skills or transferable skills, power skills are unique to you and are the skills that prevent technology like AI or robots from replacing you in the workforce. Some of the most popular power skills are traits like critical thinking, leadership, emotional intelligence, and problem-solving. These are also the balance between your work and personal life, as power skills are more catered towards your personality and arguably your interests.
Hard Skills
As the name might imply, hard skills are traits you work hard for, precisely, things you might be proficient in that can benefit the company and your work. These include programming, language fluency, data analysis, and other career field-specific skills. Hard skills are also more focused on certifications and how skilled in the areas you are and your educational background or training.
So, which one should you rely on more?
The answer to this question is a little tricky. While there can be cases made for both types, it ultimately depends on the field you work in and what companies individually look for. All jobs require a mix of both skill sets. Because hard skills help you perform different job-specific functions accurately and power skills help you actively communicate with others and work in teams harmoniously, you must stand out with both trait types when applying for jobs. And if you’re insecure about your skills, remember: the best fit for you will see your skill set and recognize your value.
