The research identified 15 soft and hard skills rated as most desired by 21st century employers.

The top five skills were the human skills – intercultural skills, curiosity, flexibility/adaptability, confidence, and self-awareness.

More than 70% of respondents saying their study abroad experience contributed to a significant degree of improvement in these skills.

In addition, more than 50% noted significant gains in interpersonal and problem-solving skills. To a lesser degree, teamwork, leadership and work ethic were skills that were also reportedly improved through study abroad.

Transferable skills such as “adaptability, emotional intelligence, the ability to listen, and language skills gained through study abroad” are integral to the future of the global workforce, according to Gina Tesla, Vice President, IBM Corporate Citizenship. “These days, all employees are brand ambassadors. Knowing how to be sensitive to other cultures, and to learn from others, is essential. They need to be savvy enough to articulate the values of our company to others.”

 The World Economic Forum identified that, in the near future, ‘human skills’ will become increasingly important. Many of these skills will be developed and enhanced by time in another culture/context.

• Creative problem solving tops the list of most essential skills in 2020. The ability to look at problems from different perspectives and come up with effective solutions.
• Making sense of huge amounts of data – developing and applying a deep sense of critical thinking and creativity.
• Making human connections at work. Adapting to different environments and contexts, collaborating with others
• Self-awareness or knowing what you feel and managing your emotions is also a top requirement in the future, especially for leadership and managerial positions.