UNDERSTAND THE DIFFERENT SKILLS AND THEIR IMPORTANCE IN THE CONTEXT OF THE AGROINDUSTRIAL SECTOR IN THE INTERIOR OF SÃO PAULO

Abstract

Both hard (technical) skills and soft (behavioral) skills play a fundamental role in the performance of corporate activities on the global stage, interconnecting and complementing each other to achieve optimal results and foster customer loyalty. In this context, when this perspective is embraced, it becomes evident that different classes and types of expertise enable the formation of committed and productive organizational teams capable of working in an integrated manner.This study aimed to explore and analyze distinct categories of competencies and expertise within the corporate environment of agro-industries located in the countryside of São Paulo State. Data were collected through the application of a questionnaire to 117 participants from agro-industries in São Carlos and surrounding regions, utilizing a 5-point Likert scale.The results revealed that the majority of participants were male (66.7%) and occupied positions as Assistants or Specialists (54.7%). Respondents affirmed the relevance of soft skills, with an average score of 4.04. The importance of hard skills was also acknowledged (average of 3.86), along with the identification of a need for technical enhancement (average of 3.72). The understanding of critical skills was assessed as moderate (average of 3.28), despite the recognized importance of these competencies being reliable (average of 3.76). This reflects a solid comprehension of technical and behavioral expertise in the execution of tasks.