Youth urged to acquire soft skills to advance career in tech
The Director of Digital and Commercial Operations at Vodafone Ghana, Angela Mensah-Poku, has urged the youth to blend hard and soft skills to help advance their career in tech.
“One thing that I have realised, especially in Tech, is that there is not enough focus on soft skills. So, being customer-centric, innovative, passionate, collaborative, dynamic, and able to pivot quickly is key.”
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“If you have a beautiful marriage between the hard skills, emotional intelligence and human aspects of technology in what you do, you will always differentiate yourself,” she said.
She gave the advice at a thought-provoking discussion hosted by MEST Africa as part of activities to mark the 2022 Women’s History Month.
It was on the theme: “Making Career Moves in Tech”.
“Striking that wonderful balance between hard skills and soft skills is critical. Whether you are an entrepreneur or you want to move into a big organisation, bring your humanity to whatever you do and work on your emotional intelligence, collaboration, inquisitiveness, and other critical soft skills,” Ms Mensah-Poku added.
She said her outfit was interested in soft skills as well, since it enabled the company to innovate constantly and improve customer experience.
Ms Mensah-Poku gave an example of how Vodafone’s Robotics Squad can collaborate effectively with other teams to develop tools and products that address customer needs.
She encouraged young girls interested in pursuing a career in tech to embrace challenges and give their best.
“There is no substitute for hard work, whether you are male or female. The work environment is also changing, and women are getting more support. Be creative and inquisitive, and I guarantee you will attract females and males who share your values and will be there for you when times get tough,” she advised.