Soft skills will be crucial for successful career in post-Covid-19 world

Critical thinking, emotional intelligence, analytical skills, adaptability and flexibility will be among the most in-demand professional qualities in the post-coronavirus world.

Speakers made the prediction at a webinar titled "Soft Skills for Post-Covid-19 Career" on Tuesday, organised by the EMK Center in association with the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) and The Business Standard, as part of a month-long campaign titled "Future of Work Post-Covid-19: Building a Sustainable Post-Pandemic Future for the Youth."

"Analytical skill is important to win professional and personal challenges," said Jeremy Wickenheiser, executive director of Watson Institute Boulder and chief tea officer of Bella Vista Tea Company.

"One should learn the skill from a skilled person through observing, listening and learning from him as well as asking a lot of questions. Growth only happens if one can get out of his comfort zone," he added.

Dr Rehnuma Karim, founder and president of Heroes for All, and adjunct faculty member of the State University of New York, USA, said self-awareness, decent behavior, feeling and relationship building are the prerequisites of developing emotional intelligence.

To employers, she said employees are like children and employers should teach and support them when they become emotionally vulnerable.

Mohammed Tariqul Islam, chief human resource and corporate communication officer of Confidence Group, found a positive side of Covid-19 as people are getting acquainted with online platforms which are opening new opportunities like e-commerce business.

"Now students have to get involved in extra-curricular activities," he added.