Effective communication, leadership, and negotiation skills are essential factors that support career success. Budi Yanto, Managing Director of PT Media Sarana Data (GMEDIA), stated that soft skills are a crucial determinant of success in one’s career. However, many companies still focus on strengthening resources through technical training.
“Soft skills contribute 85% to success, but many companies still focus solely on technical training or hard skills,” he said during the Career Insight Talkshow organised by FEB UGM at Grha Sabha Pramana UGM on Saturday (15/11/2025).
He also urged young talents to recognise their strengths, understand their career goals, and map out the skills they need to improve. With easier access to information, mapping potential and developing personal development plans should be more effective.
On that occasion, Budi also highlighted companies that are currently facing challenges in adapting to changes in employee characteristics. For example, Generation Z, who grew up as digital natives, have high technological skills, a strong sense of curiosity, and an exploratory tendency. However, the characteristics of Gen Z often do not align with the culture and expectations of companies that are still based on the values of previous generations.
According to Budi, this mismatch creates a disconnect between young workers and companies, making it seem as if the two never truly meet in terms of values, work styles, or long-term vision. One of the most commonly misunderstood issues is the increasing trend of job hopping. Many companies view this behaviour as a lack of commitment. However, for Gen Z, moving quickly between jobs is a natural response to a world of work that offers more choices, information, and opportunities. For Gen Z, this movement is not because they are unloyal, but because they want to find a place that aligns with their values, strengths, and long-term goals.
Budi believes that companies need to transform quickly. He emphasizes the importance of companies adapting to changes in employee characteristics by implementing data-driven recruitment processes that focus on innate potential, designing career paths for young leaders, and shifting the focus from merely managing to developing talent. Additionally, companies need to offer more personalized development paths for each talent and foster strong, collaborative teams. With these adjustments, employees will feel more valued because their needs and characteristics are accommodated, while also having room to develop and grow within the company.
Budi also emphasised that success at work is now primarily determined by soft skills. Soft skills contribute 85% to success, but many companies still focus only on technical or hard skills training. In fact, communication, leadership, and negotiation skills are the most influential competencies.
He also advised young talents to recognise their strengths, understand their career goals, and map out the skills they need to improve. With easier access to information, mapping potential and personal development plans should be more effective.
Reportage by: Najwah Ariella Puteri
Editor: Kurnia Ekaptiningrum
SDGs: 4, 8, 10, 17
Sustainable Development Goals
