Soft skill pulse
Soft skills hiring managers emphasize across various job categories
Soft skills are more important than ever in today’s job market. We scanned 63,455 job listings across a wide range of industries and roles, from manufacturing teams to senior leadership in data science. No matter the job level or field, employers consistently called out soft skills like communication, collaboration, leadership, and problem solving. Why does this matter now? Companies are looking for people who can work well with others, adapt to change, and lead teams. Whether you’re on the shop floor or in the executive suite, being able to collaborate, plan, and communicate is what sets candidates apart. From manufacturing janitorial teams to engineering project managers and vice presidents in data science, the same soft skills kept coming up. Employers want people who can empathize with customers, manage priorities, and influence others. These skills help teams succeed and keep businesses moving forward, especially in fast-changing environments. So, if you’re thinking about your next career move, remember: soft skills aren’t a “nice to have”—they’re what employers are searching for across every category and level.
Top soft skills overall
Counts reflect how many unique listings reference each skill cluster in the latest data pull.
Category vs. skill heatmap
Each cell shows how frequently a skill shows up for the busiest categories.
Healthcare & Life Sciences · 9,150 listings
In healthcare and life sciences, employers consistently emphasize strong communication skills, the ability to work well with others, and leadership or mentoring qualities. Adaptability to change and problem-solving are also highly valued, showing that being flexible and supportive is just as important as technical know-how. These people-side skills help teams deliver better patient care and navigate a fast-changing environment.
- Communication4,214
- Leadership & mentoring3,485
- Collaboration & stakeholders2,745
- Problem solving1,274
- Change agility1,218
Retail, Food & Hospitality · 7,117 listings
In Retail, Food & Hospitality, employers consistently look for strong communication skills and the ability to lead or mentor others, no matter the job level. Adaptability—often called "change agility"—is also in high demand, as these workplaces are fast-moving and always evolving. Being able to solve problems and work well with different people rounds out the people-side skills that help employees stand out.
- Communication3,367
- Leadership & mentoring3,201
- Change agility2,094
- Collaboration & stakeholders1,443
- Problem solving583
Operations & Program Management · 6,430 listings
In Operations & Program Management roles, employers consistently look for strong communication skills, the ability to lead and mentor others, and a knack for collaborating with different teams and stakeholders. Being adaptable to change and skilled at prioritizing and planning are also highly valued. These people-side skills help keep projects on track and teams working smoothly, no matter the technical demands.
- Communication2,870
- Leadership & mentoring2,742
- Collaboration & stakeholders2,471
- Change agility1,786
- Prioritization & planning1,345
Engineering, Hardware & Manufacturing · 6,261 listings
In engineering, hardware, and manufacturing roles, employers consistently look for strong problem-solving abilities—being able to tackle unexpected issues on the job is a must. Communication and teamwork are also highly valued, as projects often require close collaboration with colleagues and stakeholders. For more senior positions, leadership, mentoring, and the ability to adapt to change are key people-side skills that help teams succeed and grow.
- Problem solving2,690
- Communication2,083
- Leadership & mentoring1,982
- Collaboration & stakeholders1,588
- Change agility971
Sales & Business Development · 5,484 listings
In Sales & Business Development roles, employers consistently highlight people-side skills like strong communication, teamwork with stakeholders, and the ability to lead or mentor others. Negotiation and influencing skills are also in high demand, along with being adaptable to change. These qualities help professionals build relationships, drive results, and succeed in fast-paced environments.
- Communication3,284
- Leadership & mentoring2,177
- Collaboration & stakeholders1,671
- Negotiation & influence1,456
- Change agility915