compétences douces
The English phrase "soft skills" is translated into French as compétences douces.
The term refers to personal attributes and interpersonal skills that allow someone to interact effectively and harmoniously with other people.
Which one should you use?
While compétences douces is a literal translation of the English term, it is often viewed as an anglicism. In professional and academic settings, the standard and more natural way to express this concept is through the term savoir-être. If you want to focus specifically on interpersonal skills, you can use the formal term compétences relationnelles. Other formal alternatives include compétences comportementales or compétences humaines. To contrast these with technical proficiency or "hard skills," French speakers use the term savoir-faire.
Did you know?
- While compétences douces is a literal translation, many French recruiters still use the English term 'soft skills' directly in job postings and interviews.
- When writing a CV in France, it is quite common to see savoir-être listed in its own dedicated section. It is often treated with the same level of importance as your official academic diplomas.
- The word douces in compétences douces is the same word used to describe 'sweet' candy or a 'soft' voice, which can feel oddly poetic in a corporate setting.
Examples in context
- Mes compétences comportementales m'ont permis de gérer efficacement une équipe.My soft skills enabled me to effectively manage a team.
- Les compétences humaines sont essentielles dans le domaine des ressources humaines.Soft skills are crucial in the field of human resources.
- Elle excelle dans les compétences relationnelles, ce qui facilite son travail en équipe.She excels in interpersonal skills, which makes her teamwork easier.
- Ses talents sociaux lui permettent de créer des liens solides avec les clients.His social talents allow him to build strong connections with clients.
- Il a un excellent savoir-être, ce qui facilite ses relations avec les collègues.He has excellent soft skills, which makes his relationships with colleagues easier.
- Ses qualités personnelles lui permettent d'aborder les défis avec optimisme.His personal qualities enable him to approach challenges optimistically.
Example conversation
Hugo and Emma are discussing a job interview.
- HugoEmma, penses-tu que j'ai assez de compétences douces ?Emma, do you think I have enough soft skills?
- EmmaOui, Hugo, tu communiques très bien avec les autres.Yes, Hugo, you communicate very well with others.
- HugoC'est rassurant, car l'employeur insiste sur ce point.That's reassuring, because the employer insists on that point.
- EmmaC'est normal, les compétences douces font la différence.That's normal, soft skills make the difference.
