D.Sc. (Tech.) Imam Santoso Emphasizes the Importance of Soft Skills for Career Success and Resilience in the Professional World
By Indira Akmalia Hendri - Mahasiswa Perencanaan Wilayah dan Kota, 2021
Editor M. Naufal Hafizh, S.S.
BANDUNG, itb.ac.id – During the Integrated Career Days (Titian Karier Terpadu/TKT) ITB April 2025, Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB) held an inspirational talk show titled “Career Preparation” featuring D.Sc. (Tech.) Imam Santoso, S.T., M.Phil., a lecturer from ITB’s Metallurgical Engineering program, who also has extensive experience in human resource and leadership development. This event was held on Tuesday (April 15, 2025) at the East CC Auditorium, ITB Ganesha Campus.
Imam Santoso explained that career success is not only determined by technical or hard skills. While hard skills are essential and serve as a foundation, mastery of soft skills such as communication, time management, leadership, teamwork, and empathy is the key factor that significantly distinguishes individuals in today’s professional world
“Hard skills may get you into the job, but it is soft skills that will help you survive and grow there,” he stated.
He also explained that today’s workplace challenges are increasingly complex and rapidly changing so that it requires individuals who are adaptive, able to think critically, and skilled in collaborative problem-solving.
To prepare themselves, Imam emphasized several important provisions for students. First, developing self-awareness in order to clearly understand personal strengths and weaknesses. Second, actively seeking experiences outside of academics as opportunities to build character and flexibility. Third, continuously honing communication skills, both verbally and in writing, as crucial elements in the professional environment. In addition, proficiency in foreign languages is an advantage that sets candidates apart during the recruitment process.
The talk show, attended by students from various study programs, was dynamic and interactive, featuring discussion sessions about real-world workplace situations. Through this talk show, TKT ITB 2025 served not only as a meeting platform between students and companies but also as a learning space to strengthen the mental readiness and competencies of the younger generation in facing the professional world more holistically and confidently.
Reporter: Indira Akmalia Hendri (Urban and Regional Planning, 2021)
Translator: Yafi Amri (Meteorology, 2021)
