Technical know-how may get you a seat at the table, but adaptability, teamwork and communication determine how far you'll go.
The parameters of success are changing in the bustling corporate corridors of Nigeria.
Degrees, certifications and technical know-how may still secure a chance to prove yourself, but what sustains growth, makes an impact and creates real career longevity are the invisible traits we call soft skills.
Also read:Five skills every leader needs in the age of AI
Take Chika, a graduate trainee in Lagos. She had the right qualifications and could easily score the marks. But in her first months on the job, she struggled, not because she wasn't competent, but because her candid emails often seemed rude, she didn't understand her boss's work style, and she had difficulty connecting with her team.
It was only when he invested in his communication and interpersonal skills that his career took a positive turn.
This is not unique to Chaika. In Nigerian offices, many talented employees are held back because they lack the ability to manage relationships, read the room or even write an email that balances clarity with courtesy. Being likable, adaptable, and emotionally intelligent often matters as much as doing excellent work.
Consider Tunde, a mid-level executive in Abuja. Technically, he was one of the best in his unit. But he had a habit of giving one-line replies to his manager's emails, even when more context was required.
His boss interpreted this as arrogance. Truth? Tunde simply did not realize that upward communication requires not only brevity, but also diplomacy, reassurance, and a demonstration that you understand the bigger picture. Once she learned to respond with both detail and respect, her relationship with her boss changed.
How about Funmi, a young executive from Lagos Island who thought it was enough to excel in what she did.
Also read: Five soft skills employers look for when recruiting, promoting
But in Nigeria's workplace culture, relationships often create opportunities that competence alone cannot. By connecting with coworkers during lunch breaks, attending office functions, and showing genuine interest in the work of others, Funmi became more visible and doors began to open.
Conflict management is another area where soft skills prove invaluable. Emeka, a project officer in Port Harcourt, once confronted a colleague in front of the team when she missed a deadline. While his points were valid, his presentation hurt egos and increased tension.
A senior colleague later advised him to handle disagreements privately and provide constructive feedback rather than public criticism. That simple change earned Emeka more respect and preserved team cohesion.
Also read: Employers pay attention to soft skills as they set aside one – LSETF official
The bottom line is this: Soft skills are the glue that holds careers together. The ability to draft thoughtful emails, interpret your boss's unspoken expectations, navigate office politics without being manipulative, and build authentic networks often determines who succeeds and who remains stuck.
soft skills are also leadership skillsAs professionals climb the ladder, work becomes less about individual output and more about managing, influencing and trusting people. Leaders who inspire, communicate clearly and handle conflict tactfully leave a stronger legacy than those who simply get things done.
”It's not always the smartest person in the room who thrives, but the one who connects, adapts and inspires.”
At the end of the day, qualifications may get your foot in the door, but soft skills keep it open. For professionals who want to get ahead, the challenge is clear: Work not just on what you know, but on how you show up.
Mary Babatunde is Country HR Manager at CS-SUNN and Founder of the Corporate-Preneur Initiative
