Why Transversal Skills Are Crucial for Success

Hiring Insights • By Lilly Harper • Published on January 10

Why Transversal Skills Are Crucial for Success in MedTech

In the fast-paced world of MedTech, technical expertise is undeniably important, but it’s the ability to adapt, collaborate, and lead that truly sets professionals apart. These abilities are known as transversal skills—also referred to as soft skills or transferable skills. Transversal skills are those broad competencies that transcend specific job roles or industries. They include communication, teamwork, problem-solving, leadership, and adaptability. These skills are crucial because they help individuals thrive in dynamic, interdisciplinary environments like MedTech, where projects often span multiple departments, regulatory frameworks, and international markets.

In this article, we’ll delve deeper into why transversal skills are vital for success in MedTech, explore how they complement technical skills, and offer practical tips on how to build them.

What Are Transversal Skills?

Transversal skills are versatile, transferable abilities that are valuable across different sectors and roles. Unlike technical skills, which are specific to a job function (like knowledge of medical device regulations or lab protocols), transversal skills apply to almost any professional situation. In MedTech, these skills are especially critical because the industry requires professionals to work across different domains—R&D, regulatory affairs, clinical trials, and marketing.

Key examples of transversal skills include:

  • Communication: The ability to articulate ideas clearly and effectively to different audiences.
  • Teamwork and Collaboration: Working cohesively with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders.
  • Leadership: Guiding teams through complex projects and managing relationships.
  • Problem-Solving: Navigating challenges and finding creative solutions in high-pressure situations.
  • Adaptability: Adjusting to changes in regulations, technologies, or business strategies.

Why Are Transversal Skills Important in MedTech?

The "Talent to Thrive" report highlights that the future success of the MedTech sector relies not only on technical skills but also on these critical transversal skills. Here’s why they are so important:

  1. Fostering Collaboration in Cross-Functional Teams MedTech projects are often interdisciplinary, requiring input from engineers, scientists, regulatory experts, and marketers. Without strong communication and teamwork, even the most innovative projects can struggle to reach market success. Professionals who can bridge the gap between departments ensure smoother workflows, faster decision-making, and more successful product launches.
  2. Navigating Complex Regulatory Environments As MedTech is heavily regulated, professionals must work closely with regulatory bodies, comply with evolving standards, and ensure that products meet safety and quality requirements. Effective communication, attention to detail, and leadership are necessary to navigate these challenges and keep projects on track.
  3. Driving Innovation and Problem-Solving MedTech is an industry built on innovation, whether it’s developing a life-saving medical device or creating an AI-driven diagnostic tool. While technical knowledge is essential, creative problem-solving is often what takes a project from concept to reality. Transversal skills, such as critical thinking and adaptability, allow professionals to approach challenges with fresh perspectives and innovative solutions.
  4. Ensuring Customer and Stakeholder Engagement Whether interacting with healthcare providers, patients, or investors, professionals must articulate the value of their MedTech products. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are vital for engaging stakeholders, building trust, and ensuring that products meet the needs of end users.

How to Build Transversal Skills

While some transversal skills may come naturally, they can also be actively developed and refined over time. Here are some ways to build and strengthen these skills to become more competitive in the MedTech industry:

  1. Seek Out Cross-Disciplinary Projects One of the best ways to develop transversal skills is by working on projects that involve multiple departments or areas of expertise. If you’re typically focused on R&D, for example, consider collaborating with the marketing or regulatory teams. These experiences will enhance your ability to communicate with different groups and understand the broader picture of how MedTech products are developed and brought to market.
  2. Pursue Leadership Opportunities Even if you’re not in a formal leadership role, seek out opportunities to lead projects or mentor colleagues. Leading a project from start to finish—whether it’s an innovation initiative or a team-building effort—will hone your leadership and decision-making skills. Many companies offer internal leadership training programs, which can be invaluable in developing these abilities.
  3. Embrace Continuous Learning The MedTech sector is constantly evolving, with new technologies, regulations, and business models emerging regularly. Staying adaptable requires continuous learning. Whether it’s taking online courses, attending industry conferences, or obtaining certifications, staying informed about industry trends will help you remain flexible and forward-thinking.
  4. Practice Communication in Different Formats Communication is a cornerstone of transversal skills. Whether you’re presenting a new idea, writing a technical report, or negotiating with regulatory bodies, it’s crucial to practice communicating in different formats. Consider public speaking courses, writing workshops, or even informal presentations to your team to sharpen your ability to deliver clear and impactful messages.
  5. Foster Emotional Intelligence (EQ) Emotional intelligence—the ability to understand and manage your own emotions and those of others—is critical for successful teamwork and leadership. Developing EQ can improve how you handle stress, resolve conflicts, and motivate others. You can build this skill by practicing active listening, being mindful of your responses, and seeking feedback on your interpersonal interactions.
  6. Engage in Problem-Solving Exercises Problem-solving is a transversal skill that can be developed through deliberate practice. Engage in exercises like case studies, simulations, or real-world projects that require you to think critically and creatively. These exercises can help you sharpen your ability to analyze complex situations, identify potential solutions, and implement effective strategies.

Examples of How Transversal Skills Drive Success in MedTech

  1. Leading a Cross-Functional Team for a Product Launch Imagine being tasked with launching a new medical device that involves collaboration between engineers, regulatory specialists, and marketing professionals. A strong leader with communication and problem-solving skills would ensure that the team stays aligned, deadlines are met, and that the product complies with regulations while also meeting market needs.
  2. Navigating Regulatory Changes with Adaptability A MedTech company that suddenly faces new EU Medical Device Regulations might need to pivot quickly to stay compliant. Employees with strong adaptability skills can navigate these changes without derailing ongoing projects. By working closely with the regulatory team, staying informed of changes, and adjusting strategies as needed, these professionals keep the company on track.
  3. Innovating Solutions in R&D During the research and development phase, unforeseen challenges often arise. A problem-solving mindset enables MedTech professionals to innovate solutions that can overcome technical barriers or improve product efficacy. Transversal skills in critical thinking and collaboration ensure that all stakeholders are involved in refining the product.

Conclusion

While technical skills will always be vital in the MedTech industry, transversal skills are increasingly recognized as key drivers of success. These skills allow professionals to collaborate effectively across disciplines, navigate complex challenges, and lead innovation in an industry that is constantly evolving.

For professionals looking to thrive in MedTech, building transversal skills like communication, leadership, problem-solving, and adaptability is just as important as staying updated on technical advancements. By focusing on developing these broader competencies, MedTech professionals will be well-equipped to meet the industry’s future challenges.

The "Talent to Thrive" report emphasizes that the future of Ireland’s MedTech workforce will depend on a blend of both technical and transversal skills. Companies that invest in fostering these skills among their teams will be best positioned to stay competitive and lead in innovation.

Source: 'Talent to Thrive: The Future Skill’s Report for Ireland’s Medtech Sector' prepared by KPMG Ireland in collaboration with Irish Medtech Skillnet, Irish Medtech, and Skillnet Ireland.