MICA: Repositioning Soft Skills in Leadership

Join MICA and Ann Strahle for a discussion on repositioning your soft skills while serving in a leadership position.

Soft skills, often undervalued as secondary to technical expertise, are essential for effective leadership, especially in fostering collaboration, innovation, and team dynamics. However, the perception of soft skills as "soft" diminishes their significance, leading to the underestimation of leaders who excel in them. Those in leadership, often recognized as adept communicators and relationship builders, frequently find their contributions may be mischaracterized as natural traits rather than strategic competencies, resulting in an imbalance of recognition and reward. Addressing these biases requires a cultural shift that redefines soft skills as critical assets and ensures equitable acknowledgement of all leadership strengths.

Dr. Ann Strahle is the Interim Associate Dean for the College of Public Affairs and Education and an Associate Professor for the School of Communication and Media at the University of Illinois…