In today’s hyper-competitive job market, technical skills may get your resume noticed—but soft skills determine who gets hired, promoted, and trusted with leadership.

Multiple studies consistently show that up to 85 percent of long-term career success is driven by soft skills, while only 15 percent comes from technical or hard skills. In fact, research also reveals a sobering reality: 46 percent of first hires are terminated within their first 18 months, and 89 percent of those terminations are due to poor attitude, communication, and interpersonal skills, not technical incompetence.

In an era where automation, AI, and rapid change are redefining roles, the ability to communicate clearly, collaborate effectively, manage emotions, and influence others has become a non-negotiable advantage—especially for tech professionals who want to stand out, move into leadership, and sustain long-term impact.

In this conversation, I engaged with Yadi, an organizational psychology practitioner and the host of The Hardcore Soft Skills Podcast, to unpack why soft skills are no longer “nice to have,” but mission-critical for anyone building a serious career in tech and beyond.

About the Guest

Yadi is an organizational psychology practitioner, workplace strategist, and the host of The Hardcore Soft Skills Podcast, where she challenges the myth that soft skills are secondary or optional. She is also the author of Hardcore Soft Skills: A Guide to Work with Humans.

Through research-driven insights and real-world conversations, she helps professionals—especially in technical fields—understand how human behavior, mindset, and communication shape performance, leadership, and career longevity.

Her work bridges psychology and practice, translating complex human dynamics into actionable strategies for individuals and organizations seeking sustainable success.

With special guest: Clare Overmann | CEO, AIEA | Former Senior Director, IIE | Global Education Leader

Clare Overmann has spent her career building bridges across borders—turning higher education into a catalyst for collaboration, innovation, and economic growth.

From her early days in the private sector in The Netherlands to leading global partnerships at the Institute of International Education, Clare’s journey has been one of purpose and global impact. Today, as CEO of AIEA, she leads a global network of higher education leaders shaping the future of international learning, policy, and partnerships.

Behind the leadership title lies a powerful personal story—what inspired her to dedicate her life to education, how she navigated complex international partnerships, and why she believes universities are key to building more equitable, innovative, and prosperous societies.

This conversation isn’t just about academia—it’s about how education drives economies, transforms communities, and connects the world.

Discussion Highlights

1. From Industry to Impact

How Clare transitioned from the petrochemical sector in The Netherlands to global education—and the moments that shaped her purpose.

2. Partnerships that Power Progress

What it takes to build sustainable, mutually beneficial academic collaborations that fuel innovation and opportunity.

3. Higher Education as an Economic Engine

How universities contribute to workforce readiness, entrepreneurship, and international development.

4. Education for Global Impact

How higher education cultivates ethical leaders who think beyond borders and act with integrity, empathy, and responsibility.

5. Leading Through Complexity

Her perspective on the future of international higher ed leadership—and the mindsets required to thrive in an uncertain world.

About the Guest

Clare Overmann is CEO of AIEA, the leading association for senior international officers and global education leaders. She previously served as Senior Director at the Institute of International Education (IIE), where she led the Center for International Partnerships, managing collaborations across 15+ countries.

With a B.A. from Georgetown University and an M.A. from NYU Steinhardt, Clare brings deep understanding of policy, partnership, and people to advance higher education as a force for global good. Her work bridges academia, diplomacy, and leadership—empowering universities to shape a more connected and equitable world.

#TheAtoZPodcast #ClareOvermann #AIEA #GlobalEducation #HigherEducation #BeyondBorders #EconomicDevelopment #SocialImpact #EducationForChange #InnovationThroughEducation

I recently joined Your Ethiopian Professionals Network (YEP) for a dynamic conversation on From Diaspora Dreams to U.S. Business Ownership.

Together, we explored topics that matter deeply for aspiring and existing Ethiopian entrepreneurs in the U.S., including:
💡 Why buying a business can sometimes be a smarter move than starting from scratch
💡 Diverse sources of financing to help scale your company
💡 Investor visa options for those looking to invest in the U.S.
💡 The most important leadership competency every entrepreneur needs to succeed

And — we uncovered one of the most neglected but extraordinary financing options that too many overlook.

🔥 It was a dynamic, eye-opening discussion, and I’d love to hear your takeaways.
👉 Check out the clip and share what stood out most to you.

#YEP #EthiopianEntrepreneurs #DiasporaLeadership #BusinessOwnership #InvestInAmerica #Entrepreneurship