Share this article:

Adapting to work | Study supposedly discovers the 'number one' soft skill, and it's good news for HR

Study supposedly discovers the 'number one' soft skill, and it's good news for HR

These days, soft skills are what companies looking for when they’re searching for top talented employees. However, with so many distinct soft skills out there and new trends emerging daily, it’s getting more difficult to stand out and showcase one’s talent.

Getting ahead at work and ranking top is a big deal for many employees and for future candidates that want to impress employers at their next major interview. But what are employers really looking for, and how can they find it?

A new study conducted by Harvard Business School uncovered that 71% of 1,500 executives from across 90 countries stated that adaptability is the most important quality they look for in a leader.

In fact, data from a 2021 McKinsey & Company study discovered that people proficient in adaptability were 24% more likely to be employed.

Continue reading for FREE!

Sign up for a myGrapevine account to get:

  • Unlimited access to News content
  • The latest Features, Columns & Opinions
  • A full range of specialist HR newsletters to choose from

Welcome Back

Sign up for myGrapevine

* By creating an account you agree that you have read and agree to our Terms and Conditions and that Executive Grapevine International Ltd and its partners may contact you regarding relevant content and products. You will also be added to the HR Grapevine newsletter mailing list.

Sign up to our daily newsletter

Have content like this delivered directly to your inbox.


Recommended

Fintech firm faces staff backlash after cutting paid paternity leave
HR Grapevine
HR Grapevine | Executive Grapevine International Ltd
  • News

'Very disappointing' | Fintech firm faces staff backlash after cutting paid paternity leave

How Amazon, Zurich & more are unlocking the 'untapped potential' of refugee talent
HR Grapevine
HR Grapevine | Executive Grapevine International Ltd
  • Feature

Refugee Week | How Amazon, Zurich & more are unlocking the 'untapped potential' of refugee talent

CPO, ANS: Our culture is shaped by employees, not performative PowerPoints
HR Grapevine
HR Grapevine | Executive Grapevine International Ltd
  • Podcast

Podcast | CPO, ANS: Our culture is shaped by employees, not performative PowerPoints

Proven programmes: How top UK employers are using CSR to drive employee engagement
HR Grapevine
HR Grapevine | Executive Grapevine International Ltd
  • Webinar

Proven programmes: How top UK employers are using CSR to drive employee engagement

The Work-Life Gap Report 2026
HR Grapevine
HR Grapevine | Executive Grapevine International Ltd
  • Resource
  • Download Report

The Work-Life Gap Report 2026