What’s the Difference Between Hard Skills and Soft Skills?

You might have heard the terms hard skills and soft skills before. Nearly every job, in every industry, requires having a mix of hard and soft skills!

But what’s the difference between these two types of skills, and why are they so important? Let’s take a closer look:

What are hard skills?

Hard skills are the technical, tangible skills employees need to perform specific jobs. Examples could include things like computer and keyboarding skills, familiarity with Microsoft Office programs, knowing how to use a cash register, or being certified to operate heavy machinery. Hard skills are usually acquired through education, technical training, or on-the-job practice.

Job coach with young job seeker

What are soft skills?

Unlike hard skills, soft skills are the non-tangible habits and personality traits employees need to create a positive and effective work environment. These are attributes such as respect, communication, teamwork, dependability, and time management. Soft skills are just as important as hard skills in helping employees succeed in the workplace!

Building hard and soft skills

All job seekers need a combination of both hard and soft skills, but developing them requires taking different approaches. For example, hard skills are often learned in a classroom or training environment. Soft skills come from real-life experiences and can be strengthened by individual coaching and mentoring.

At Ohio Valley Goodwill, we recognize the importance of hard and soft skills in helping job seekers find, obtain, and maintain employment. We also understand that not everyone has been given the same opportunity to develop and practice the skills needed to thrive in today’s working world. Far too many Americans face barriers to employment, barriers that can be broken with intentional training, coaching, and support.

That’s why we’re proud to provide vocational programs and employment services specifically for those facing barriers to employment in Greater Cincinnati, including individuals with disabilities and our nation’s veterans. We’re committed to ” putting people to work” in our communities, helping them achieve independence, self-confidence, and personal and vocational success. We invite you to read about the inspiring Success Stories of individuals we’re proud to serve.

At Ohio Valley Goodwill, our vocational programs and services are made possible with help from community members like you! Goodwill’s mission is fueled by donations and our network of retail stores in and around Greater Cincinnati. Every time you donate gently used items to Goodwill or shop in one of our stores, you’re helping to change lives through the power of work.

We Put People to Work!

Support local job seekers “” visit your nearest Goodwill donation site or retail store today!