Why are soft skills important in the IT industry and what do they encompass? Moss and Tilly define them as "skills, abilities, and traits linked to personality, attitude, and behavior rather than formal or technical knowledge." These skills are crucial for success at every level within an organization.
Strong soft skills are essential for achieving great results in every field.
Here are the key soft skills we consider vital in the IT industry:
Assertive Communication
The foundation of negotiation, expressing opinions, respecting others, and encouraging new ideas lies in communication. It plays a major role in our work and success. At ICodeFactory, assertive communication is at the core of what we do. We aim to share our thoughts, needs, and opinions while equally valuing those of others. Together, we strive to find the best solutions that drive collective success. We invest in ongoing training in this area.
Problem-Solving
A vital part of the IT industry is a strong focus on finding solutions - whether anticipated or unexpected. All our employees approach challenges by asking: How do I solve this? How can I improve efficiency? What’s the best possible solution? This mindset fosters creativity and logical thinking, leading to continuous improvement in our work and processes.
Teamwork
Behind every successfully completed task is a team - not just an individual. We share ideas, insights, and innovations. Teamwork fuels growth through guidance, support, constructive feedback, and a shared vision. We contribute as much as we receive. Knowledge is passed on and expanded upon.
Critical Thinking
We think constantly, but what matters is thinking that challenges us and drives growth. It starts with a strong foundation and a willingness to self-reflect. In our company, critical thinking empowers IT professionals to anticipate problems, find solutions, and enhance processes.
When working on projects and developing products for clients, it is essential to understand the field where we aim to add value. We dive deep into the heart of the problem before providing the final solution. There’s always the question: how does it benefit the intended users? What problem does it solve?
Our approach is focused on uncovering true value by understanding the underlying needs. We strive to go beyond and make meaningful impact.
Time Management
Last but definitely not least - this skill enables all of the above. How can we bring ideas to life, stay productive, and achieve results? It all starts with effective time management. This skill helps us prioritize, stay organized, and focus on meaningful tasks. Time management powers our daily success in the IT industry and it’s something we continually refine.
All of them can be developed with effort and dedication. Success isn’t just about talent - many other factors play a role.
These are the soft skills we consider really important for growth and success. Do you agree? Which soft skills do you believe can be valuable in the IT industry?
Six months after donating equipment to a children's shelter – a space for children from vulnerable groups in Novi Sad – we revisited the shelter to see the impact this support has had on their daily lives. We spoke with Nikola, one of the children's shelter administrators, who shared honest insights about the importance of access to digital tools, how the children are using them and what more can be done.
How has the donated equipment helped in everyday activities, and in what ways do children most often use computers – for learning, research, or entertainment?
“It has helped us a lot, honestly,” Nikola begins. “The children use the equipment for learning, research, but mostly for entertainment. The Xbox is always in use, and we really take care of it.”
How many children currently use the donated equipment, and how many children are there overall at the children's shelter?
“As of December 31st, we finished services with 839 children. Currently, there are between 40 and 60 users in the shelter on a daily basis. We work from 8 AM to 8 PM, and children go through children's shelter all day.”
In what ways do children use computers to collaborate, help each other, or engage in activities?
“Well, they help each other, honestly, mostly with social media, but certainly with other things too.😊 Soon we’ll be collaborating with an IT specialist who will hold a workshop for them on how to create an email and similar things. We’ve also collaborated with a math teacher who showed them how to create avatars, and they used them afterwards. That was a real opportunity to use computers and for the children to work together and learn something new.”
Have you noticed that some children discover special interests or talents through working with computers?
“Yes, they have. Many children have a talent for drawing or singing, but I’ve also noticed some talents related to computers. I regret that we can’t dedicate more time to this area—honestly, I think we lack that part, to educate them more about computers and other skills, and that’s something we should work on in the future.”
Are there any children who clearly show a special enthusiasm for technology?
“I think some of them, when it comes to computers and technology, would prefer to acquire basic knowledge independent of school. That’s why we organized courses for a while, like basic Word skills, using the internet, searching for web addresses, and similar skills. The children really adapted well to that and were thrilled when they received certificates and awards.”
How would you like to further develop educational activities in children's shelter?
“We are trying, in addition to the primary schools, to involve as many organizations as possible from the non-governmental sector and other institutions and associations, where children can gain knowledge outside the school environment.”
How important is it that children have access to modern technology in a space like a children's shelter?
“It is very important. Aside from places like children's shelter, some children often don’t have access to computers or phones. They don’t have access to such technology, which further deprives them of many opportunities for learning and development. That’s why it’s extremely important that places like this provide children with access to technology.”
Is there anything that would make your work easier in the future?
“We’re always in need of computers and a color printer, which we’ve been trying to acquire for a long time, but unfortunately, we haven’t succeeded yet. It doesn’t have to be new; it just needs to be functional because we often print different materials for the children, which makes them very happy. In addition to technical equipment, we are always in need of clothing, diapers and baby supplies.”
Join the Effort – Help Us Empower Children
At children's shelter, every donation counts. You don’t need to make a big gesture to make a big impact. We believe every child deserves the chance to explore, learn and grow in a supportive environment.
We invite everyone to consider donating to a children's shelter. Together, we can ensure that children from marginalized backgrounds have the tools and opportunities they need for a brighter future.
To learn more or to donate to children's shelter: svratistezadecuimlade@gmail.com
In celebration of International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we interviewed some of our talented female software engineers. Their unique perspectives and inspiring journeys into the world of IT highlight the importance of diversity in tech and the impact women have in shaping the future of the industry. In this article, they share their personal stories, motivations, and advice for the next generation of women pursuing careers in programming.
How did you get interested in programming and what inspired you to enter the IT world?
I've always been inclined towards science, and I've been particularly fascinated by mathematics – so much so that I thought I'd become a math professor. What attracted me to mathematics – logical thinking, problem analysis and the pleasure of finding a solution – I also recognized in programming, which I first encountered in high school. That feeling of solving challenges and creating something functional through code immediately won me over and directed me towards the IT world.
Jelena
I've always loved logic and problem solving, but I didn't know right away that programming was the right choice. It wasn't until I first encountered it that I realized how much I enjoyed creating something from scratch. I like the feeling of writing code that works.
Milica
What advice would you give to girls who are considering a career in programming?
We've all been beginners at some point – Start with small projects, learn through practice, and don't wait until you're 'ready enough'. Mistakes are definitely part of the process, there are no stupid questions, and every line of code contributes to your experience.
Milica
Who has been your inspiration or role model in your career?
I didn't have a specific role model, but I was lucky enough to work with people who, through examples and mentorship, showed me how to think differently and progress. I've been more inspired by situations than individuals – for example, when I see someone quickly solve a problem in a way I wouldn't have thought of, it motivates me to learn and grow.
Sara
What are the most important aspects of working in IT and what motivates you the most in your day-to-day work?
Every day brings something new – new challenges, new knowledge and the opportunity to work with great people from different cultures and backgrounds. The dynamism of this job and the constant development are what motivate me the most. Also, the feeling when we solve a problem and make the client's job easier, knowing that we have done something useful, is priceless and further encourages me to be even better at what I do.
Tatjana
The best part is that I'm constantly learning something new and being able to see the concrete results of my work. I also like that problems can be solved in many ways and that gives a lot of room for creativity. What motivates me the most is when I see that what I design or propose really helps people and makes their work easier.
Sara
The insights shared by our colleagues are a powerful reminder of the talent, resilience, and passion that women bring to the tech industry. As we continue to break barriers and inspire the next generation of women in science and technology, their stories are proof that there’s no limit to what can be achieved with dedication and determination. On this International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we celebrate not only their achievements but also the bright future they’re helping to build.
