Clearly, social competence is probably more important for success in the work and professional world than are a lot of the so- called “hard skills”. Additionally, how can we begin to ascribe a new way of thinking about these skills so that they receive the proper value and importance? I’ve started referring to these competences as “The Essential Skills” indicating that these competencies are much more than “nice to have”. These are the requirements for admission to the work world and are essential for moving the business forward. Next time you hear someone talking about “soft skills”, go ahead growl and  correct them, but please don’t bite their head off.]]>