Australians looking to climb the career ladder should consider sharpening their soft skills with the number of jobs in soft-skill-intensive occupations expected to grow at 2.5 times the rate of jobs in other occupation.
Soft skills are non-technical, character, and behavioural skills that influence how you work and interact with others. These skills include communication, leadership, collaboration, problem-solving, critical thinking, adaptability, and flexibility.
TAFE NSW is playing a pivotal role in closing the soft skills gap by offering training through its Diploma of Leadership and Management. This course has seen a steady number of enrolments as people in regional NSW choose to enhance their job prospects and secure leadership roles.
Melissa Perrin landed a role as a General Manager at NDIS service provider Northaven in Inverell after graduating from a Diploma of Leadership and Management at TAFE NSW Moree.
She credits the course for equipping her with the necessary skills and confidence needed to transition into a leadership role.
“In my mid-40s, I decided to switch careers and move into the disability sector,” Ms Perrin said.
“After completing a Certificate IV in Community Services and a Certificate IV in Disability Support, I started working in NDIS support coordination. The next logical step for me was to move into management.”
“I went on to study the Diploma of Leadership and Management at TAFE NSW and it built my leadership skills and confidence. Throughout the course, I had the opportunity to practice and refine my soft skills. I’ve grown in patience and improved my listening and communication skills. The personal growth I’ve felt within this course has been life changing.”
TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Leadership and Management Matt Bourke said TAFE NSW’s leadership and management courses provide a pathway to career advancement.
“The Diploma of Leadership and Management is a highly regarded course that enables learners to build invaluable soft skills for effective workplace communication and leadership,” Mr Bourke said.
“Our highly experienced team of educators empower learners to pursue their career goals by equipping them with in-demand soft skills that will enable them to thrive in the workplace.”
National Skills Week, running from 19 to 25 August 2024, marks its 14th year in highlighting the importance of vocational education and training (VET) in creating attractive career pathways.
As the job market evolves and Australians change employers every 3.3 years on average, VET plays a crucial role in bridging skills gaps across industries, strengthening both communities and the economy.
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