Acquire insights on how to effectively identify and assess the most in-demand skills in candidates with our specialized guide for recruiters.
How can recruiters bridge the skills gap?
The skills gap, essentially the difference between the skills employers need and the skills job seekers possess, can slow down a company’s growth and prevent new ideas from happening.
59% of leaders have reported they find difficulty in finding qualified employees due to skills gaps.
But the good news is—recruiters can play a hero’s role here.
They can bridge it by rolling out smart recruiting strategies, helping both employers and job seekers hit their marks.
1. Implement targetted training initiatives
One of the most direct approaches to bridging the skills gap is through targeted training initiatives.
You can play a pivotal role by identifying specific skill shortages within their organization and then coordinating with training providers to develop programs tailored to these needs.
This could involve online courses, workshops, or even on-the-job training opportunities.
2. Foster strong relationships with educational institutions
Building partnerships with universities, colleges, and vocational schools can provide a steady pipeline of candidates equipped with the latest skills and knowledge.
You can collaborate with these institutions to inform curriculum development, ensuring that it aligns with industry needs.
Internship and apprenticeship programs are excellent ways for students to gain real-world experience, while employers can identify and nurture future talent.
3. Leverage #RecTech to identify skill needs
Utilizing an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) can significantly help in leveraging technology to identify skill needs.
AI recruiting tools can predict future skill requirements by analyzing patterns in hiring practices and industry shifts.
For instance, if there’s a surge in demand for digital marketing skills across job postings processed by the ATS, recruiters can infer a growing trend and adjust their talent search accordingly.
Also read: Top 10 AI recruiting tools you MUST invest in to beat the competition
Look for candidates with these 5 hard skills in demand
The job market is rapidly evolving, and certain hard skills have become crucial for those looking to stay ahead.
Here’s a straightforward look at the skills you must actively seek in candidates:
1. Data analysis and management
Businesses are drowning in data and desperately need people who can make sense of it.
If you have a candidate who can analyze data sets to inform business decisions or manage databases effectively, they’re in high demand.
Note: Skills in SQL, Python, and data visualization are particularly valuable.
2. Cybersecurity fundamentals
More than 353 billion people were impacted by data breaches in 2023.
As cyber threats multiply, so does the need for cybersecurity experts. Look for candidates who understand how to protect networks, IAM systems, and data from digital attacks.
3. AI and machine learning
Transforming this data into actionable insights is becoming a cornerstone of business success across various sectors.
As we lean on AI for critical advancements in healthcare, scientific research, and beyond, the importance of ethical, transparent, and explainable artificial intelligence cannot be overstated.
This is where data science skills become invaluable. You should prioritize candidates who excel in data manipulation and analysis and understand the ethical implications of AI.
4. Cloud computing and infrastructure
The shift to cloud-based solutions means candidates with experience in cloud services like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud are highly sought after. Earning a relevant Microsoft certification can further validate a candidate’s expertise. These skills are essential for businesses looking to scale and optimize their operations.
5. Software development and programming
The backbone of HR digital transformation, software development, and programming skills remain in high demand. Candidates proficient in coding languages such as Java, Python, and C++ are key to developing the applications and systems that power today’s businesses.
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Top 6 in-demand soft skills that matter in candidates
In today’s job market, the emphasis on soft skills is more pronounced than ever, especially in the UK, where an overwhelming majority of employers—nine out of ten—assert their growing importance.
1. Communication skills
Clear and effective communication is fundamental in any role. Candidates who can articulate ideas clearly, listen actively, and convey messages in a way that resonates with diverse audiences are invaluable.
2. Emotional intelligence and empathy
The ability to understand and manage one’s own emotions, as well as empathize with others, is key to building strong workplace relationships. Candidates with high emotional intelligence can navigate complex social environments and foster a positive team dynamic.
3. Interpersonal networking skills
Building and maintaining professional relationships is vital for career growth and business success. Look for applicants who are natural networkers and can leverage connections to benefit their teams and projects.
4. Adaptability
The business landscape is constantly evolving, making adaptability and resilience essential traits. Candidates who thrive in change, learn from challenges, and bounce back from setbacks can drive innovation and growth.
5. Leadership and team collaboration
Leadership isn’t just for managers. Candidates who demonstrate the ability to lead projects, inspire teamwork, and collaborate effectively can contribute significantly to achieving organizational goals.
6. Critical thinking and problem-solving
The ability to analyze situations, think critically, and devise effective solutions is invaluable. Applicants with execellent problem-solving can help navigate challenges and drive business success.
Don’t miss out on: 8 must-have recruitment skills to become an ace recruiter
Essential 5 hybrid skills to seek in applicants
Hybrid skills are a dynamic combination of technical proficiency and soft, interpersonal abilities tailored to meet the demands of today’s complex and rapidly changing job market.
These skills transcend traditional job roles, blending expertise from different domains such as technology, communication, creativity, and business strategy.
The rise of hybrid jobs, which require a mix of previously considered unrelated skills, underscores the increasing value of applicants who can bridge diverse fields.
1. Digital literacy combined with strategic thinking
Professionals who excel in using digital tools and platforms gain a competitive edge when they also possess strategic thinking abilities.
This powerful combination allows them to not just execute digital tasks but to envision and implement technology-driven strategies that align with and propel the company’s long-term objectives.
They can foresee digital trends and make informed decisions that drive growth and innovation.
2. Technical project management with interpersonal savvy
Managing projects that have a significant technical component requires more than just an understanding of the technology itself.
When this technical know-how is paired with strong interpersonal skills, project managers can lead diverse teams more effectively, ensuring clear communication, resolving conflicts, and motivating team members toward common goals.
This blend of skills ensures that complex projects are completed on time and within budget and that the team remains cohesive and motivated throughout the process.
3. Data science expertise with storytelling abilities
Data science is critical in extracting insights from vast amounts of information. However, the true power of data is unleashed when these insights are communicated in a way that is understandable and compelling to non-experts.
Professionals who can turn complex data sets into narratives that drive decision-making can significantly impact strategic directions.
4. Design thinking paired with business acumen
Design thinking is a problem-solving approach that emphasizes empathy and creativity to develop solutions. When combined with business acumen, professionals can apply this approach not just to create innovative solutions but also to ensure these solutions are commercially viable and strategically aligned with business goals.
This hybrid skill set is crucial for driving innovation that not only meets user needs but also contributes to the business’s bottom line.
5. IT skills blended with customer service excellence
The technical expertise of IT professionals is undeniably important in developing and managing technology solutions.
However, when these skills are coupled with a strong sense of customer service, tech people can significantly enhance the user experience.
This combination is key to building and maintaining positive relationships between technology teams and their users, leading to higher satisfaction and loyalty.
Grab this skill assessment toolkit ASAP
To ensure the best match between candidates and job roles, recruiters can utilize a variety of tools and techniques designed to assess a wide range of skills:
1. Applicant tracking systems
Modern ATS platforms do more than streamline the recruitment process. They’re equipped with features that allow for the automated screening of resumes based on specific skill-related keywords and criteria.
This initial filtering process helps recruiters focus on candidates who possess the essential qualifications for the role, saving time and resources in the early stages of recruitment.
2. Behavioral interviewing for soft skills assessment
Behavioral interviewing techniques are crucial for evaluating a candidate’s soft skills, such as communication, leadership, and teamwork.
By asking candidates to describe specific instances where they demonstrated these skills, you can gain insights into how candidates might perform in similar situations at their company.
This method relies on the premise that past behavior is the best predictor of future performance.
3. Technical skill testing platforms
For roles requiring specific technical expertise, there are numerous platforms and software solutions designed to test a candidate’s technical abilities.
These can range from coding challenges by iMocha to analytical problem-solving tests by Equip.
Such platforms provide objective metrics on a candidate’s proficiency, ensuring that recruiters can make informed decisions based on quantifiable data.
4. Role-specific simulation exercises
Simulating real-world scenarios that a candidate might encounter on the job is an effective way to assess how they apply their skills in practice.
For example, a marketing candidate might be asked to develop a campaign strategy based on a given set of parameters, or a project manager might be tasked with planning the resources for a hypothetical project.
These simulations offer a glimpse into the candidate’s problem-solving process, creativity, and ability to work under pressure.
5. Portfolio reviews and case study analysis
Reviewing a candidate’s portfolio or conducting a case study analysis can reveal the depth and breadth of their skills, especially relevant for creative and strategic roles.
Portfolios provide tangible evidence of a candidate’s work quality and creativity, while case studies test their ability to think strategically and apply their knowledge to solve business problems.
Also read: Recruitment experts reveal their top tools and tactics for sourcing candidates!
Look out for these skills in demand and build robust and versatile teams equipped to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.
Frequently asked questions
1. Why are soft skills more important than ever?
Soft skills, such as communication, empathy, and adaptability, are more important than ever because they facilitate effective teamwork and leadership in increasingly diverse and dynamic work environments.
As automation and AI take over routine tasks, the unique human ability to manage complex interpersonal dynamics, think creatively, and adapt to change becomes a critical asset that drives innovation and business success.
2. Are language skills considered in demand?
Yes, language skills are highly in demand, especially in our globalized economy.
Proficiency in multiple languages can open doors to international markets, enhance communication with a broader client base, and foster better cultural understanding within multinational teams.
Language skills are particularly valued in roles related to international business, customer service, translation, and localization.
3. Why are hybrid skills becoming more important in the job market?
Hybrid skills, which combine technical expertise with soft skills, are becoming increasingly important because they enable professionals to bridge the gap between complex technical tasks and broader business objectives.
In today’s interdisciplinary work environments, professionals who can apply technical knowledge creatively, communicate complex ideas clearly, and lead diverse teams are invaluable for driving innovation and ensuring that technological advancements align with strategic goals.
4. How can professionals develop in-demand skills?
Professionals can develop in-demand skills through various methods, including formal education, online courses, workshops, and self-study.
Practical experience, such as internships, volunteering, or project-based work, is also crucial for applying theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios.
Also, networking with professionals in the field and seeking mentorship can provide insights into industry trends and guidance on skill development.
