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More than a ‘humpty dumpty’ term: Strengthening the conceptualization of soft skills

Author

Listed:
  • Scott A Hurrell

    (University of Stirling, UK)

  • Dora Scholarios

    (University of Strathclyde, UK)

  • Paul Thompson

    (University of Strathclyde, UK)

Abstract

There is an ongoing sociological debate regarding which work activities can be considered ‘skilled’. In recent years, this debate has become increasingly controversial due to the growing prominence of so-called ‘soft skills’, especially when used in interactive service work. This article seeks to strengthen the conceptualization of soft skills, through case study investigation, to determine whether or not they are worthy of the ‘skilled’ label. An expanded notion of skill is supported, recognizing that in service contexts displaying employer-facilitated worker discretion and requirements for contextual knowledge in the use of soft skills, the term can indeed have real meaning.

Suggested Citation

  • Scott A Hurrell & Dora Scholarios & Paul Thompson, 2013. "More than a ‘humpty dumpty’ term: Strengthening the conceptualization of soft skills," Economic and Industrial Democracy, Department of Economic History, Uppsala University, Sweden, vol. 34(1), pages 161-182, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ecoind:v:34:y:2013:i:1:p:161-182
    DOI: 10.1177/0143831X12444934
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Brown, Phillip & Hesketh, Anthony, 2004. "The Mismanagement of Talent: Employability and Jobs in the Knowledge Economy," OUP Catalogue, Oxford University Press, number 9780199269549.
    2. Jonathan Payne, 2004. "Re-Evaluating the Finnish Workplace Development Programme: Evidence from Two Projects in the Municipal Sector," Economic and Industrial Democracy, Department of Economic History, Uppsala University, Sweden, vol. 25(4), pages 485-524, November.
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