Technical and non-technical training

In today's rapidly evolving professional landscape, companies are increasingly recognising the importance of equipping their employees with a diverse skill set that encompasses both technical and non-technical skills.

While technical skills provide the foundation for job-specific tasks, non-technical skills are vital in developing employees who can thrive: both technical and non-technical skills play a significant role in professional success.

If we use the wall picture as an analogy (you were wondering about the wall, weren't you?) The bricks in the wall are the Technical skills. The mortar (which binds the individual bricks together into a strong and cohesive structure) are the non-technical skills.

The importance of each skill set may vary depending on the specific job role and industry.

Here's an overview of both:

Technical Skills:

Technical skills refer to the specific knowledge and expertise required to perform tasks related to a particular job or field. These skills are typically acquired through education, training, and practical experience.

Technical skills are essential for performing job-specific tasks efficiently and effectively. Technical skills are often more tangible and measurable, making them crucial in certain fields where specialised knowledge is required.

Non-Technical Skills:

Non-technical skills, (also known as soft skills or meta skills) are equally important to development and are the personal attributes and qualities that enable individuals to interact effectively with others.

They're the skills which are key to ensuring professionals go beyond surviving in the workplace, to thriving.

The list of what’s included will vary according to who you ask, but it typically includes:

• Emotional intelligence – being aware of and managing emotions well. This starts with self-awareness which enables self-management. Following self-awareness comes social awareness, which gives us what we need to manage relationships.
• Communication – this stretches all the way from active listening and building trust, through to managing difficult conversations, conflict resolution, influence and negotiation, communicating as a leader of people, and finding your voice for public speaking. And don’t forget the power of storytelling!
• Time management – mastering this skill opens so many opportunities! Link your task list to your desired objectives, think about using the prioritisation matrix to rate tasks according to their urgency and importance, empower yourself to say no to commitments that don’t move you towards your goals.
• Problem-solving – have you tried the de Bono six thinking hats method for critical thinking? Do you break down big tasks into smaller, more manageable ones?
• Resilience – how strongly do you bounce back after a setback? What activities top up your resilience reservoir? What methods of self-care do you practice (eg exercise / journalling / meditation)? Linked to resilience is adaptability – the survivor’s art of being flexible when the environment changes.
• Networking – no matter how good you are at your job, if no-one knows about it, you don’t progress. Networking is much more than feeling okay about walking into a crowded room and being comfortable talking with strangers. A well-curated network gives you links to individuals who you can help with your knowledge, and who will reciprocate by sharing their expertise with you.
• Creativity – some of us think we aren’t creative. This is a limiting belief. With practice, and the right techniques, we can all become more creative. Think brainstorming, artistic pursuits, challenging yourself to think differently.
• Lifelong learning – there’s no such thing as staying where you are. If you’re not moving forwards, you’re falling behind. Active learners will show curiosity, they will ask questions and want to learn. They’ll take online courses, attend workshops and seminars, cultivate a habit of reading and practising new skills.
• Leadership – more on this in another post!

Non-technical skills are highly transferable and applicable across various industries and job roles. They’re the game changers, the differentiators that will set you apart, making them valuable in any profession.

In reality, the most successful professionals possess a combination of both technical and non-technical skills. Employers now look for a balance of both skills when hiring and promoting individuals. While technical skills may get you in the door, it is often the non-technical skills that differentiate exceptional performers and contribute to long-term success.

Companies and individuals need to recognise that it is beneficial to develop a well-rounded skill set that includes both technical and non-technical training.

Training syllabus:

The Universal Verification Ltd updated training course syllabus will be released soon. It includes both technical and non-technical courses which are delivered by our team of consultants and associates.

If you would like to receive updates of our training courses please contact us here or email the team at [email protected]

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