LevelUp Cyber - Scott Hudson - Soft Skills and How to Get Them

In this insightful episode of LevelUp Cyber, host Tony Bryan welcomes special guest Scott Hudson from Mercy Health to discuss an often-overlooked aspect of technology careers: the importance of soft skills. While technical proficiency is crucial in the cyber world, the ability to communicate effectively, work well in teams, and adapt to changing circumstances can be just as important.
Key Discussion Points:
1. The Role of Soft Skills in Technology Careers
Tony Bryan opens the conversation by highlighting the necessity of soft skills in the tech industry. He notes that while technical skills can get you a job, soft skills can help you advance in your career.
Scott Hudson, a cybersecurity expert at Mercy Health, shares his experiences on how soft skills have been instrumental in his career growth. He emphasizes that the ability to articulate complex technical issues in a simple manner to non-technical stakeholders is invaluable.
2. Essential Soft Skills for Tech Professionals
Insights from Mercy Health outline the key soft skills that every tech professional should develop. These include communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability.
The discussion delves into real-world scenarios where these skills are critical. For instance, Scott recalls a situation where his team's ability to communicate and collaborate under pressure led to the successful mitigation of a major security breach.
3. How to Develop Soft Skills
Tony asks Scott for practical advice on how individuals can develop these essential skills.
Scott suggests a combination of formal training and real-life practice. He recommends taking courses in communication and leadership, as well as seeking out opportunities for public speaking and group projects.
Additionally, Scott emphasizes the importance of mentorship and networking. Learning from others who excel in these areas can provide valuable insights and shortcuts to improving one's own skills.
4. Integrating Soft Skills into the Workplace
The conversation shifts to how organizations like Mercy Health foster an environment that values and develops soft skills. Scott highlights the importance of company culture and leadership in promoting these skills.
He shares examples of initiatives from Mercy Health, such as cross-functional team projects and regular feedback sessions, that have helped employees enhance their soft skills.
5. The Future of Soft Skills in Tech
Tony wraps up the episode by asking Scott for his predictions on the future importance of soft skills in the tech industry.
Scott agrees that as technology continues to evolve and integrate more deeply into all aspects of business and life, the demand for professionals who can bridge the gap between technical expertise and human interaction will only grow.
Throughout the episode, Tony and Scott provide listeners with a wealth of practical advice and personal anecdotes, underscoring the critical role that soft skills play in building a successful technology career. Whether you are just starting out in the field or looking to advance to the next level, this episode of LevelUp Cyber offers valuable insights into the skills that will set you apart in the competitive tech landscape.