Recruiters prioritize soft skills when hiring

WASHINGTON D.C., UNITED STATES — Global development organizations are increasingly prioritizing soft skills when hiring, according to recruiters interviewed by Devex Career Hub. 

Soft skills refer to interpersonal abilities like communication, collaboration, and problem-solving.

“With a remote/hybrid workforce, teamwork and strong communication are valued,” said Beth McGovern of Tetra Tech. 

The U.S. government client staffing manager emphasized these skills as isolation and team communication are among the challenges in remote working.

“Valuing everyone’s expertise, role, and voice is critical in developing strong partnerships and collaboration,” she added.

Satomi Ogata-Knutsen of United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) also highlighted critical thinking, teamwork, and adaptability as key competencies sought in applicants.

Meanwhile, Iosif Sofios of the Danish Refugee Council told Devex that their organization looks for competencies aligned with their five core values – striving for excellence, collaborating, leading, communicating effectively, and demonstrating integrity.

In a Devex digital event last year, expert Kathryn Harper argued that so-called “soft skills” are equally as important as technical qualifications, the same findings from an Infosys study.