Whether you’re applying for a job, leading a team, or building your resume, understanding technical vs soft skills is critical to career success. Employers in 2025 aren’t just hiring based on credentials—they want people who can deliver results and communicate effectively.
So, what’s the difference? And how do you balance both?
This guide explains:
- What technical and soft skills are
- Key differences between them
- Real-world examples
- How to develop each skill set
- What employers are looking for
What Are Technical Skills?
Technical skills are specific, teachable abilities that are usually acquired through education, training, or practice. They are measurable and job-specific.
Examples of Technical Skills:
- Coding (e.g., Python, Java, HTML)
- Data analysis (e.g., Excel, SQL, Tableau)
- Accounting or bookkeeping
- Machine operation (e.g., CNC machines, robotics)
- Graphic design (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, Canva)
- Cybersecurity and IT troubleshooting
- Medical procedures (e.g., phlebotomy, radiology)
Key Point: Technical skills are often listed in job descriptions and required for specific roles.
What Are Soft Skills?
Soft skills are personal attributes and interpersonal abilities that determine how you interact, adapt, and perform in a workplace.
Examples of Soft Skills:
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Time management
- Problem-solving
- Adaptability
- Leadership
- Emotional intelligence
Key Point: Soft skills are harder to quantify but equally important for team dynamics and long-term growth.
Technical vs Soft Skills: Side-by-Side Comparison
CategoryTechnical SkillsSoft SkillsDefinitionTeachable and measurable abilitiesInterpersonal and behavioral abilitiesHow it’s learnedCourses, certifications, on-the-job trainingLife experiences, feedback, mentorshipMeasurabilityEasily tested and certifiedHarder to measure objectivelyRole in hiringMinimum requirement for many jobsInfluences culture fit and promotionsExamplesJavaScript, CAD, SEO, MS ExcelLeadership, conflict resolution, empathyIndustry relevanceVaries by professionNeeded across all industries and rolesWhy You Need Both to Succeed
Modern careers are hybrid. For example:
- A software developer needs to code efficiently (technical) and collaborate with product managers (soft).
- A nurse must know medical protocols (technical) and empathize with patients (soft).
- A marketing expert must manage SEO campaigns (technical) and communicate reports to clients (soft).
Companies now prioritize candidates who bring both skill sets—those who can execute the task and build strong relationships.
In-Demand Technical and Soft Skills in 2025
Top Technical Skills:
- Cloud computing
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning
- Cybersecurity
- Data science and analytics
- UI/UX design
- Software engineering
- Digital marketing (SEO, PPC, automation)
Top Soft Skills:
- Emotional intelligence
- Critical thinking
- Creativity
- Flexibility/adaptability
- Team collaboration
- Decision-making
- Resilience
According to LinkedIn and Glassdoor reports, soft skills are the top predictors of long-term career success, even in highly technical fields.
How to Improve Technical Skills
- Take CoursesPlatforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer practical certifications.
- Get CertifiedEarn industry-recognized credentials (e.g., CompTIA, Google Ads, AWS).
- Practice on ProjectsBuild real-world experience through internships, freelancing, or side projects.
- Stay UpdatedFollow tech blogs, forums, and communities in your industry.
How to Improve Soft Skills
- Join Teams and GroupsCollaborate on projects to develop teamwork, conflict resolution, and communication.
- Seek FeedbackRegularly ask for constructive feedback from managers or peers.
- Practice Self-AwarenessUnderstand your strengths, weaknesses, and emotional triggers.
- Take WorkshopsEnroll in leadership or communication training programs.
- Read and ReflectBooks on emotional intelligence, mindfulness, and psychology can help improve soft skills.
Resume Tips: How to Highlight Technical vs Soft Skills
Technical Skills Section:
List relevant tools, software, and proficiencies.
Example:Programming Languages: Python, Java, JavaScriptTools: Git, AWS, SQL, Tableau
Soft Skills in Experience Section:
Describe situations where you applied soft skills effectively.
Example:“Led a cross-functional team to deliver a software project 2 weeks ahead of deadline through strong communication and collaboration.”
What Employers Really Look For
A 2023 survey by Indeed revealed:
- 93% of hiring managers said soft skills are “essential”
- 65% of job rejections were due to a lack of soft skills—not technical shortcomings
- Candidates who possess both are 3x more likely to be promoted within the first year
Pro Tip: During interviews, be ready to demonstrate both hard and soft skills using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
Industry Examples: Technical vs Soft Skills by Job Role
ProfessionTechnical Skill ExampleSoft Skill ExampleSoftware EngineerPython, APIs, GitHubProblem-solving, teamworkDigital MarketerGoogle Analytics, SEO, CanvaCreativity, communicationAccountantQuickBooks, Excel, financial modelingAttention to detail, time managementProject ManagerMS Project, Agile toolsLeadership, decision-makingCustomer Service RepCRM systems, live chat softwareEmpathy, patienceConclusion
Understanding technical vs soft skills is essential for career growth. While technical skills help you do the job, soft skills help you thrive in the job.
To succeed in 2025’s competitive job market:
- Focus on continuous learning
- Build strong communication and collaboration habits
- Highlight both skill types in your resume and interviews
- Seek roles that allow you to develop both
The most valuable professionals are those who combine skill with character, and expertise with empathy.
FAQs
1. What is the main difference between technical and soft skills?
Technical skills are job-specific and measurable; soft skills are interpersonal and behavioral traits used in any role.
2. Can soft skills be taught?
Yes. While they come naturally to some, soft skills like communication and leadership can be developed with practice and training.
3. Are soft skills more important than technical skills?
Both are important. Technical skills get you hired, but soft skills help you grow, lead, and succeed long-term.
4. How do I highlight soft skills in an interview?
Use real-life examples (via the STAR method) to show how you’ve used soft skills to solve problems or collaborate.
5. Which jobs require more technical skills?
Roles in IT, engineering, finance, healthcare, and design often rely heavily on technical expertise.