Why Soft Skills Beat Tech Skills in 2026 Tech

Send us Fan MailUnderstanding Change, Communication, and Career Growth #Unlocking Success in Technology and Communication: An Interview with Ashley AllenDiscover practical insights from Ashley Allen's extensive experience in the tech and communication space. Whether you're starting your career, planning a family, or navigating leadership, her advice on soft skills, adaptability, and industry opportunities is invaluable.In this episode, we discuss:Ashley's unique blend of theater background and tech expertiseThe importance of communication and presentation skills in tech rolesCareer progression tips for women in the channel and tech industriesHow to thrive during industry changes and digital transformationBuilding long-term relationships in channel and partnership managementManaging work-life balance and career planning as a working parentThe evolving channel ecosystem and opportunities within GSI partnershipsPractical strategies for upskilling, observing leaders, and self-developmentTimestamps:00:00 - Ashley Allen's journey from theater to technology leadership02:11 - How your background can enhance communication skills in tech05:10 - Developing confidence and reading your audience in presentations07:45 - The impact of theater skills on sales and stakeholder engagement12:41 - Managing career and family: the importance of planning and flexibility15:11 - Inside channel sales: roles, growth, and key skills to develop17:28 - Understanding GSIs and their role in digital transformation efforts19:43 - The expanding channel ecosystem and emerging partnership models21:18 - Why sales experience is crucial for career advancement23:53 - The impact of industry evolution: from physical boxes to AI and digitalisation27:28 - Continuous upskilling and soft skills development in a fast-changing world30:03 - Observing and mimicking effective leadership styles33:01 - Turning problems into solutions: proposing actionable ideas36:43 - Building empowered teams that bring solutions to the table39:01 - Tips for rapid career growth and securing your next opportunity42:17 - Advice for young women entering tech today44:22 - The importance of sharing knowledge and empowering women in tech45:36 - Final thoughts: fostering community and continuous learningResources & Links:Ashley Allen on LinkedInBlueJeans (Cisco)Zoom Video CommunicationsAvayaPWCKPMGDeloitteTata CommunicationsGSI - Global System IntegratorsAI and Digital TransformationConnect with Ashley Allen:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleymdallen/Enjoy this inspiring conversation on thriving in tech, enhancing communication skills, and building impactful careers!Some people thrive in sales. Others in systems. Some build fast, others build deep. The difference isn't discipline. It's design. MoneyCareer.app uses your Chinese Ba Zi chart and Psychometric profile to show you the career and money path you were actually built for.www.moneycareer.app Are you in tech, get equity in your compensation and tired tax shocks?Check out www.equitytax.ai Support the [email protected]