Soft Skills

SOFT
SKILL
The objective of this training is to

Enhancing trainees‘
communication,
interpersonal, problem-
solving , adaptability, and
professionalism skills to
foster comprehensive
professional development.
Introduction to soft skills
Technical and Vocational and
Training is a critical component
of education systems
worldwide, focusing on
equipping individuals with
practical skills and knowledge
necessary for specific
professions and careers.
TVT plays a significant role in
 Cont’d
To effectively realize the SDGs related to
quality education, decent work and economic
growth, and reduced inequalities through TVT,
trainers play a crucial role.
For TVT to achieve these goals, trainers must
be equipped with essential soft skills like
communication, teamwork, emotional
intelligence, problem-solving, adaptability, and
work ethics
By developing their soft skills, trainers can
enhance their effectiveness, support trainee
success, and contribute to the success of TVT
and the broader objectives of the SDGs.
 Definition of Soft Skills
Soft skills are non-technical abilities that
influence how effectively individuals perform
in the workplace.
Soft skills are a collection of positive
attributes and competencies that enhance
work performance and productivity, improve
relationships, and increase an individual’s
marketability.
Soft skills are essential for TVT trainers,
enabling effective communication, fostering
collaboration, and enhancing interactions
with staff and trainees.
 Hard skills VS Soft skills
Hard skills are specific, teachable abilities such as
programming, data analysis, or machine
operation, often acquired through formal or
informal education.
In the context of TVT, hard skills are the specific
technical abilities and knowledge necessary for
performing particular vocational tasks, such as
welding, plumbing, or computer programming.
In contrast, soft skills are interpersonal and
behavioral traits like communication, teamwork,
and problem-solving, typically developed through
personal experiences and practice.
 Importance of Soft Skills
Enhance effective
communication
• Foster teamwork and
collaboration
• Improve problem-solving skills
• Boost motivation and inspiration
• Facilitate conflict resolution
• Develop emotional intelligence
 Elements of Soft Skills
 Net working
 Empathy
 Team work
 Communication
 Resilience
 Flexibility
 Embracing change
 Initiative
 Professionalism
 Time management
 Decision making
 Creativity and innovation
 Critical thinking
 Emotional intelligence
Communicat
ion Skills
 1- Communication Skills
Communication is a process, which
involves sharing of information between
people through a continuous activity of
speaking listening, and understanding.
 Communication skill is the ability to
convey information clearly, listen
actively, and engage effectively with
others.
Communication skills involve listening,
speaking, observing and empathizing.
 Communication skills are key skills for TVT
trainers involve listening attentively,
 The Importance of
Communication
Communication is crucial for TVT trainers, impacting
their
relationships with trainees, colleagues, and
management in several ways:
• Enhances personal effectiveness
• Facilitates networking
• Boosts motivation
• Strengthens understanding
• Improves interpersonal relationships
• Optimizes instructional delivery
• Promotes a motivating work environment
• Enhances performance improvement
• Contributes to a positive work environment
 Barriers to Effective
Communication
Over-communication
• Conflicting information
• Language differences
• Prejudice:
• Differing status
• Interest and attitude
• Prejudgment
 Types of Communication
1. Verbal communication: involves the use of spoken or written words to
convey messages. This includes face-to-face conversations, telephone
calls, video conferences, emails, and
written reports.

2. Non-verbal communication: consists of body language, facial

expressions, gestures, posture, and eye contact that convey meaning
without using words. It often supports or contradicts verbal messages.

3. Written communication: includes any form of communication that uses

written symbols, such as emails, letters, memos, reports, and text
messages. It is crucial for providing clear, documented information.

4. Visual communication: utilizes visual aids like charts, graphs, diagrams,

and images to help illustrate and enhance understanding of information. It
supports and complements
verbal and written communication.
Styles of Communication
A. Assertive communication: this style involves
expressing thoughts, feelings, and needs directly
and honestly while respecting others.
B. Aggressive communication: characterized by
expressing thoughts and needs in a forceful or
hostile manner, often disregarding others' feelings
and perspectives.
C. Passive communication: involves avoiding the
expression of one's own needs or feelings, often
resulting in not addressing personal concerns or
desires.
D. Passive-aggressive communication: combines
passive and aggressive elements, where individuals
indirectly express their dissatisfaction or hostility.
Assertive Communication for TVT
Trainers
• Assertive communication is crucial for TVT
trainers as it facilitates clear, respectful, and
effective interactions with trainees, colleagues,
and management.
 This communication style enables trainers to
express their thoughts, needs, and expectations
directly and confidently, while also valuing and
considering the perspectives of others. By being
assertive, trainers can:
• Enhance Clarity
• Build Respectful Relationships
• Manage Conflicts Effectively
• Encourage Trainee Engagement
 Effective Communication

Effective communication is the foundation

of successful interactions in any
professional and personal context.
Effective communication contains several
key elements:
• Clarity and Conciseness
• Active Listening
• Non-Verbal Communication
• Empathy and Respect
• Feedback
• Adaptability
• Open-Mindedness
Interperso
nal Skills
 2-Interpersonal Skills
Teamwork
Teamwork involves group members helping
each other and sharing information, with the
ability to work together effectively to achieve
a common goal.
• Teamwork is one of the most important
interpersonal skills it enhances both
productivity and learning in any setting.
• Teamwork is vital in the TVT context because
it significantly enriches the learning experience
and prepares trainees for real-world work
environments.
 Teamwork is essential in the TVT context as it
significantly enhances the learning and training
experience for both trainers and trainees. Here
are some key reasons why teamwork is crucial in
TVT:

• Enhanced learning outcomes

• Skill development
• Improved problem-solving
• Increased engagement
• Efficient resource utilization
• Preparation for the workforce
• Enhanced trainer effectiveness
• Supportive learning environment
• Accountability and responsibility
• Positive training atmosphere
Clear and Defined Goals
• Defined Roles and Responsibilities
Essential components of an Effective
Teamwork

• Strong Internal Communication

• Mutual Respect
• Inclusive Decision-Making
• Active Participation
• Strong Leadership
• Skill Development and Innovation
• Accountability and Responsibility
• Positive Team Atmosphere
1- Forming- The forming stages occurs when
team members first come together as a
team
2- Storming- teams discover team work is
more difficult than expected
3- Norming- begins as the team moves
beyond the storming stage and begins to
function as a team
4- Performing- when a team reaches the
performing stage it is functioning as a high
performance team
5- Adjourning- Breaking up the team when
 The five dysfunctions of
a team model
In attention to result
Avoidance of accountability
Fear of conflict
Luck of commitment
Absence of trust
 2- Interpersonal
Skills -Empathy
Empathy is the ability to understand and share
the feelings, thoughts, and experiences of
others. It involves recognizing emotions in
others, understanding their perspectives, and
responding with compassion and sensitivity.
• It requires actively putting oneself in another
person's shoes to comprehend their emotional
state and needs.
 Importance of Empathy
Enhanced communication
• Stronger relationships
• Improved conflict resolution
• Increased motivation
• Better team dynamics
• Effective leadership
• Enhanced problem-solving
• Reduced stress and burnout
 Components of Empathy

Cognitive Empathy- taking on

another persons perspectives.
Emotional Empathy-
understanding emotions in
our selves and others
Compassionate Empathy-
putting Empathy in to action
 2-Interpersonal Skills –
Networking Skills
• Networking skills refer to the abilities and
techniques used to build, maintain, and influence
professional relationships to achieve personal and
career objectives.
• These skills include effective communication,
active listening, relationship-building, and
strategic interaction.
• Networking skills enable individuals to connect
with others, exchange valuable information, seek
opportunities, and create collaborative
partnerships.
 Importance of Networking
Access to industry insights
• Professional growth
• Resource sharing
• Collaborative opportunities
• Problem-solving support
• Career development
• Enhanced teaching practices
• Community building
• Increased institutional impact
 Strategies for Effective Networking
Skills
Setting goals: identifying networking objectives
and
targets
• Identifying key contacts: knowing whom to
connect
with to achieve professional goals
•Attending events: participating in industry
conferences, workshops, and seminars
• Social media: using platforms like LinkedIn to
connect and engage with professionals
 2- Interpersonal Skills –
Emotional Intelligence
 Emotional Intelligence EI is the ability to
recognize, understand, and manage our own
emotions, as well as the emotions of others.
• It involves being aware of how emotions
influence our thoughts and actions, and
effectively applying this awareness to navigate
social complexities, foster positive relationships,
and make informed decisions.
• Emotional intelligence is the ability to
understand, use, and
manage your own emotions in positive ways to
relieve stress,
 Key Components of
Emotional
Intelligence
Social skills
Self awareness
Self regulation
Empathy
Motivation
 Self-Awareness

• Self-awareness is the
foundational component of
emotional intelligence. It
involves the ability to
accurately recognize and
understand one's own
emotions, thoughts, and
values, and how they
 Self-Regulation
• The ability to manage and
control one’s emotions,
thoughts, and behaviors in
healthy and constructive
ways.
• It allows individuals to stay
calm and composed, make
thoughtful decisions, and
 Motivation
• It is the ability to channel
emotions to drive oneself
toward achieving goals with
energy and persistence.
• It encompasses the internal
drive that inspires individuals
to take action, overcome
challenges, and maintain a
 Empathy
• It is the ability to
understand and share the
feelings, perspectives, and
experiences of others.
• It involves recognizing and
being sensitive to the
emotions of others, which
fosters deeper connections
 Social Skills
• The ability to interact
effectively with others, build
and maintain healthy
relationships, and navigate
social environments. These
skills are crucial for
successful communication,
collaboration, and leadership.
 Importance of
Emotional
Intelligence
• Understanding and Relating to
Others
• Communicating Effectively
• Boosting Compassion
• Making Smarter Decisions
• Staying Resilient
Problem
Solving
skills
3.Problem Solving skills
Problem-solving skills are abilities
that help individuals identify,
analyze, and solve problems
effectively.
Problem-solving skills focusing
on
• Critical thinking
• Creativity and Innovation
• Decision making
 Critical thinking
Critical thinking is a cognitive and reflexive
process that enables individuals to identify,
analyze, justify decisions, make decisions,
and present problems for consideration
across various professional fields.
Critical thinking skills are crucial for
individuals to adapt and cope with rapidly
evolving information, promoting better
decision-making and problem-solving in
real-world applications.
Techniques for Developing Critical
Thinking Skills
Debates Research
Project-Based Learning
Case Studies
Real-World Practices
Cooperative Learning
Research
 Techniques for Developing Critical
Thinking Skills
• Debates and case studies focus on developing
argumentation and analytical skills.
• Project-Based Learning and real-world practices
emphasize practical application, bridging the gap between
theory and practice.
• Research fosters independent investigation and evidence-
based reasoning, essential for making informed decisions.
• Cooperative learning promotes collaborative problem-
solving and critical evaluation.
 Integrating these methodologies into TVT programs can
create a comprehensive learning experience that equips
trainees with robust critical thinking skills, preparing them
for complex challenges in their professional lives.
 Strategies for Teaching
Students to Think Critically
 Encourage Questioning
 Use Socratic Method
 Teach Argument Analysis
 Promote Active Learning
 Foster Reflection
 Use real-life scenarios
 Model Critical Thinking
 Teach Logical Fallacies
 Encourage Collaboration
 Integrate Critical Thinking Frameworks
Applying Critical Thinking
to Complex Situations
Incorporating Critical Systems Thinking into
TVT programs equips trainees with a robust
framework for tackling complex issues.
By understanding the broader context and
interconnections within systems, trainees
can develop more effective, sustainable
solutions to real-world problems.
This approach not only enhances their
problem-solving abilities but also prepares
them to manage and influence complex
systems in their professional careers.
 Creative and innovation
Creativity is the ability to generate new,
original, and valuable ideas or concepts.
• It involves thinking outside conventional
boundaries and connecting seemingly
unrelated ideas in novel ways.
• While innovation refers to the process of
taking creative ideas and turning them into
practical and impactful solutions or products.
• It involves implementing new ideas to
create value or improve existing systems,
processes, or products.
 Relationship Between
Creativity and Innovation
Creativity as a
foundation
• Innovation as
implementation
• Creativity involves
thinking differently
• Innovation Requires
Methods for Stimulating Innovation
and Generating New Ideas
Project-Based Learning
Brainstorming Sessions
Industry Collaboration
Design Thinking
Reverse Engineering
Case Studies and Simulations
Cross-Disciplinary Learning
 Decision making
Decision making involves
individuals making choices among
desirable alternatives to maximize
utility or expected utility
• Decision-making is the process of
selecting the best course of action
among various alternatives to
achieve a desired outcome.
• Mastering this skill is crucial for
both personal and professional
 In TVT context, decision-
making is vital for
Tailoring occupation standard to industry
standards
• Efficiently allocating resources
• Supporting diverse student needs, and
• Fostering valuable industry partnerships.
• Evaluating and refining programs to
maintain relevance and quality.
Generally, effective decision-making ensures
that training remains relevant, impactful, and
aligned with both educational goals and
industry requirements, ultimately enhancing
the career readiness of student
 Steps for Making Informed and
Effective Decisions
1- Define the Problem
2- Gather Information
3- Identify Alternatives
4- Evaluate Options
5- Make the Decision
6- Implement the Decision
7- Monitor and Review
 Tools Used for Assessing Risks and
Evaluating Outcomes

Risk Matrix
SWOT Analysis
Cost-Benefit Analysis
Decision Trees
Risk Register
Benchmarking
Scenario Analysis
4.Work
Ethics
skills
 Time management
Time management is essential for
maximizing productivity and
achieving goals efficiently.
• It involves planning, prioritizing
tasks, and allocating time effectively
to avoid delay and stress.
By mastering time management,
individuals can enhance their focus,
meet deadlines, and balance
multiple responsibilities. Core issues
 Time management
For a TVT trainer, effective time
management is crucial to deliver quality
instruction and meet diverse
responsibilities.
• Good time management helps trainers
balance teaching, preparation, and
professional development, preventing
burnout and maintaining productivity
• By managing time well, trainers can
enhance the learning experience, meet
deadlines, and foster a structured and
organized environment, ultimately
 Techniques for Effective Planning and
Prioritization of Tasks (the Eisenhower matrix)

urgent
Not urgent Do Schedule
tasks with dead Tasks with un clear
dead lines that
lines or contribute to long-
consequences term successes

Delegate Delete
Task that must get done
Distractions and
but don’t require your
un necessary tasks
specific skill set
Techniques for Effective Planning
and Prioritization of Tasks
SMART Goals
S – Specific :-Make your goal specific and narrow
for more effective planning
M- Measurable:- Make sure your goal and
progress are measurable
A- Achievable:- Make sure you can responsibly
accomplish your goal with in a certain time frame
R- Relevant:- your goal should align with your
values and long –term objectives
T- Time based:- Set realistic but ambitious end
date to clarify task prioritization and increase
motivation
 Cont.…
Time Blocking
To-Do Lists
ABC Method -A-: High priority very
important major significance
B-: Medium priority important
medium significance
c-: Low priority less important minor
significance
Gant chart
Pomodoro Technique-: work on the
task set with timer
Strategies to Avoid Delay
Set Clear Deadlines
• Break Tasks into Smaller Steps
• Use a Task Management System
• Prioritize Tasks
• Avoid Multitasking
• Set Time Limits
• Eliminate Distractions
• Develop a Routine
• Regular Progress Reviews
• Prepare for Contingencies
 Common Problems in Time Management
 Procrastination
Delaying tasks or decisions until the last
minute.
• Procrastination often stems from a lack of
motivation, fear of failure, or feeling
overwhelmed.
• It can lead to increased stress and lower
quality of work as deadlines approach.
 Poor Prioritization
• Failing to identify and focus on the most
important tasks.
• Without proper prioritization, you may
spend time on low-impact tasks while
 Cont.…
 Lack of Planning
• Not having a clear plan or schedule for tasks and
goals.
• Without a plan, it's easy to lose track of what needs to
be done and when.
 Distractions and Interruptions
• External or internal factors that divert attention from
tasks
• Distractions can come from various sources like social
media, notifications, or noisy environments
• Minimizing distractions involves creating a focused
work environment, using tools to block distracting sites,
and setting specific times to check emails or messages.
 Cont.…
 Poor Time Estimation
• Misjudging how long tasks will take to complete.
Underestimating task duration can lead to missed
deadlines and frustration.
• To improve time estimation, track how long similar
tasks take, use time tracking tools, and build in
buffers for unexpected delays.
 Ineffective Delegation
Not properly assigning tasks to others or
micromanaging.
• Effective delegation involves assigning tasks to the
right people and providing clear instructions.
• Micromanaging can reduce efficiency and hinder
team development
 Cont.…
Inability to Say No
• Struggling to decline additional tasks or requests.
• Not setting boundaries can lead to an overloaded
schedule.
• Learning to say no diplomatically and prioritizing
your own tasks and well-being are essential
Lack of Focus
• Difficulty maintaining concentration on a single
task.
• A lack of focus can result from multitasking or not
having a clear workspace.
• Improving focus involves creating a conducive work
environment, setting specific goals, and using
techniques like time-blocking to dedicate
uninterrupted periods to tasks.
 Professionalis
m
Professionalism encompasses a set of
behaviors, attitudes, and skills that reflect a
high standard of conduct in the workplace
• It involves demonstrating respect, reliability,
and ethical integrity while maintaining a
positive and constructive demeanor.
• Professionalism is not only about dressing
appropriately or adhering to company policies
but also about consistently delivering quality
work, communicating effectively, and
fostering a collaborative environment.
 The importance of
professionalism for a TVT trainer
Establishing Credibility
Enhancing Communication
Modeling Behavior
Managing Conflicts
Ensuring Consistency
Upholding Ethical Standards
Promoting
Continuous Improvement
 Strategies for fostering a culture
of professionalism among trainees
Fostering a culture of professionalism among
trainees is essential for their development and
success in their future careers. This involves
• Setting clear expectations
• Ensuring that trainees understand the standards
of behavior
• Work ethic, and performance required.
• Leading by example is
• Providing constructive feedback regularly
• Creating an environment that promotes
accountability and
• Encourages open communication
 Initiative
Initiative is the ability to identify and act on
opportunities without being directed by
others.
• It involves taking proactive steps to
address problems, improve processes, or
contribute new ideas, thereby demonstrating
self motivation and foresight.
• Taking initiative is a key trait in both
personal and professional contexts
 behavior and self-
starting attitudes
Encouraging proactive behavior and self-
starting attitudes is vital for fostering a
dynamic and effective work environment.
•Proactive behavior involves anticipating
challenges and opportunities and taking
initiative to address them before they
escalate.
• To cultivate this mindset, it’s essential to
create an environment that values and
rewards self-starting attitudes.
 opportunities for
improvement and innovation
In TVT
Industry Needs Assessments
Curriculum Reviews
Feedback from Trainees
Benchmarking
Engagement with Technology
Professional Development
Conducting Research
Encouraging Student Innovation
Adaptability
Skills
5. Adaptability Skills

1 Embracing
Change
2 Flexibility
3 Resilience
 Adaptability Skills
Adaptability skills are essential in
today’s fast-paced and ever-
changing world.
• These skills encompass the ability
to embrace change, remain flexible
in the face of shifting circumstances,
and build resilience to overcome
challenges.
• By mastering adaptability,
individuals can effectively navigate
Embracing Change
Embracing change refers to an individual’s
or team’s mindset and attitude towards
change.
• It involves positively accepting and
adapting to new situations or circumstances
with openness and a proactive approach.
• Embracing change focuses on personal
and emotional responses, encouraging
individuals to view change as an
opportunity rather than a threat.
Key Stages of Embracing
change

1- AWARENESS
2- ACCEPTANCE
3 - ADJSTMENT
4- INTEGRATION
5- OPTIMISIM
overcoming fears and
resistance to change
Acknowledge and Address
Concerns
Communicate Transparently
Involve Stakeholders in the
Process
 Provide Support and Training
Celebrate Small Wins
Foster a Positive Culture
 Flexibility
Flexibility refers to the
ability to adapt and adjust
one’s thoughts, behaviors,
and strategies in response
to changing circumstances
and challenges.
• It involves being open to
new ideas, willing to modify
The Importance of Flexibility in
a Dynamic Training Environment
Adaptability to
Changes
Personalization of
Learning
Managing Disruptions
Encouraging
Engagement
 Techniques for Adapting
Teaching Methods to
Trainee Needs
Differentiated Instruction
• Formative Assessment
• Flexible Scheduling
• Interactive Learning
• Scaffold Support
• Responsive Adaptation
• Cultural Sensitivity
• Peer Learning and Support
 Resilience
Resilience is the ability to bounce
back from setbacks, adapt to
adversity, and continue pursuing
goals despite challenges.
• It involves a combination of mental
strength, emotional flexibility, and
problem-solving skills that enable
individuals to withstand stress and
recover from difficulties.
• Resilient people maintain a
positive outlook, view challenges as
 Strategies for developing
mental and emotional
resilience in the face of
setbacks
• Cultivating a Growth Mindset
• Building Strong Support Networks
• Practicing Self-Care
• Setting Realistic Goals
• Developing Problem-Solving Skills
• Maintaining Perspective
• Enhancing Emotional Awareness
• Adopting Flexible Thinking
• Seeking Professional Support
 THANK
THANK
YOU
YOU