Conceptual approaches to defining "soft skills" in modern models of managerial competence

Abstract

Introduction. Development of soft skills occupies an important place in future managers' professional training system. Therefore, the analysis of scientific views on the emergence and development of "soft skills" as an important psychological phenomenon is a relevant research area and an applied task. Aim. Based on the analysis of foreign and Ukrainian scientific literature, to reveal the main approaches to defining the concept of "soft skills", to find out its key structural components as well as to determine soft skill's socio-economic role in promoting effective management activities. Methods. Theoretical analysis, systematization and generalization of scientific psychological literature on the problem of interest, content analysis. Results. Based on the analysis of modern foreign and Ukrainian models of "soft skills", as well as different approaches to their content and structure, it was determined that there are no critical differences between them, with the exception of their profession-relevant characteristics. All the models are based on the emotional, communicative, and managerial components as well as personal qualities that determine the type of thinking (creative, critical, innovative) and which are considered in the context of a human-centered approach. Modern managers, regardless of their status or the level of their organization, company, or firm, should be focused on staff and perceive their organizations as living organisms, whose vital power is determined by staff. Besides, managers should be able to make non-standard decisions and changes, to unite staff on the basis of common values and interests, and to promote their desire for improvement. Conclusions. The development of flexible "soft skills" is an important aim of future managers' professional training.