Theory: (Digital) Social Skills

2. Social Skills - What & Why?

Social skills are part of what are known as "soft skills", which, in turn, refer to those social, emotional, resolutive and behavioural skills that allow us to perform better in social contexts and, therefore, obtain better results.

In the context of DIGITOUR, “Social Skills” are particularly relevant in the digital environment, since it is the new playing field on which companies in the tourism sector, regardless of their particular area of activity, must focus in order to attract customers and maintain good relations with stakeholders. This not only facilitates innovation, but also improves the resilience prospects of small businesses and professionals.

However, it is impossible to ignore the benefits of applying soft skills (communication, teamwork, empathy, active listening, collaboration, etc.) in daily activities that require presence, as they will be the key to a successful performance and the achievement of better results (such as strengthening relationships or customer loyalty) in the short, medium and long term.

According to DIGITOUR's previous research, social skills - such as communication or relationship management - are essential for professionals and SMEs in the tourism sector in the daily management of their activities and, therefore, being able to apply appropriate strategies in the (increasingly) digitalised environment will be fundamental. Therefore, this Module aims to provide basic theoretical knowledge and practical and easy-to-apply strategies to boost their performance.

Additionally, social skills usually go hand in hand alongside one’s own methodological skills, so head to Module 4 to learn more on the topic.