Abstract
In an era marked by volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity (VUCA), intercultural leadership is critical for fostering innovation and collaboration across global workplaces. Yet, many young professionals lack the essential soft skills—such as emotional intelligence, communication, and adaptability—required to thrive in these environments. Based on my teaching experiences at Pratt Institute and the City College of New York (CCNY), this study explores the root causes of this skills gap, including the pervasive influence of social media and decreasing attention spans. These deficiencies hinder teamwork, reduce productivity, and impede leadership development. To address these challenges, I propose integrating soft skills training into educational curricula through role-playing, group projects, and mentorship opportunities. Additionally, leveraging technology to promote ethical communication, cultivating mindfulness, and encouraging experiential learning can help students build resilience and adaptability. Bridging this soft skills gap is essential to empowering the next generation of leaders to navigate intercultural complexities and drive innovation in a rapidly changing world. This study aims to inspire a collective effort to redefine educational priorities and create sustainable strategies for professional growth.
Presenters
Sara D JazayeriFoundre and Principal, Architecture, Studio 360 Inc., New York, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
SOFT SKILLS, EDUCATION, SOCIAL MEDIA, ATTENTION SPAN, EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE,PROFESSIONAL GROWTH
