Art of Speaking – An Impression of Man: Analysing the Need for Communication and Soft Skills

This paper aims to establish the fact that simply scoring good marks and completing a degree is not enough to succeed in this swiftly changing world. Soft skills are an indispensable part of the present system of education. This paper documents a brief survey of soft skills with a focus on etiquette and manners and how, with them, students can have a more complete personality. The paper aims at revealing the need and role of good communication skills for professional students and how they can help in building a successful career. Soft skills, along with good manners and conduct can complement the personality of any individual. Etiquette and manners form an integral part of soft skills, as each aspect of communication i.e. listening, speaking, body language, writing etc. is interrelated with courtesy. There is ample evidence that technical students lack the required standard of communication skills, particularly when measured against the needs of the industry. The teaching of soft skills and communication must not be undertaken merely to complete the syllabus; it should also be seen as a means to instil good manners and offer tips on appropriate behaviour. Impeccable soft skills and etiquette go hand-in-glove with every level of good and effective communication, good behaviour, age-appropriate conduct and, above all, becoming a better co-worker and human being.