In today’s workplace, soft skills are a hot commodity. While hard skills and technical proficiencies are needed to keep up with rapidly evolving technology, soft skills are increasingly taking center stage in hiring decisions. Recruiters now realize that the ability to collaborate, adapt, and communicate effectively can determine long-term success over technical know-how.
Soft skills, often referred to as interpersonal or people skills, are the intangible qualities that define how we interact with others and handle our work. Even though they are difficult to teach, they are critical for navigating dynamic workplaces. According to LinkedIn’s Global Talent Trends report, 92% of talent professionals say soft skills are just as important, or more important, than hard skills when evaluating candidates.
“When hiring, we’re not just filling a role—we’re shaping the future of our teams and culture,” said Darryl Johnson, Human Resources and Benefits Manager for Automation Personnel Services. “We should look beyond the résumé—because while hard skills may drive performance, it is soft skills that foster connection, resilience, and lasting impact.”
Curious what skills other recruiters are focusing on? Here are the top five soft skills recruiters are prioritizing in the workplace today:
1. Communication Skills
Why it matters:Strong communication is foundational in nearly every job. Whether it’s writing a clear email, presenting an idea in a meeting, or resolving a conflict between team members, the ability to convey thoughts clearly and listen actively is vital.
What recruiters look for: Recruiters are seeking candidates who can speak effectively and have adequate writing skills. During interviews, many recruiters often assess how articulate a candidate is at describing past experiences, explaining ideas, and engaging in dialogue. Clarity, brevity, and empathy are key indicators of strong communication soft skills.
How to improve: If you’re a job seeker looking to gain an edge, practice active listening, read as much as possible to improve your vocabulary, and even consider taking a public speaking or business writing course. Recording and reviewing your presentations can also reveal areas for improvement.
“When hiring, we’re not just filling a role—we’re shaping the future of our teams and culture,”
Darryl Johnson, Human Resources & Benefits Manager Automation Personnel Services
2. Emotional Intelligence (EQ)
Why it matters: The soft skill Emotional Intelligence (EQ) is the ability to understand and manage your emotions while empathizing with others. In team settings, EQ helps individuals navigate interpersonal dynamics, resolve conflict, and create a positive work environment.
What recruiters look for: Recruiters value candidates who demonstrate self-awareness, empathy, and the ability to manage stress. Those who can provide examples of working through team challenges or supporting a colleague often score high on emotional intelligence.
How to improve: Reflect on your emotional responses to different situations. Practice empathy by actively trying to understand others’ perspectives.
3. Adaptability
Why it matters: The modern workplace is defined by rapid change as new technologies are developed and market conditions shift. Employees who can pivot quickly, stay productive under uncertainty, and embrace change are crucial to a company’s success, making adaptability one of the most valuable soft skills.
How to improve: Be curious. Stay updated on industry trends and be willing to try new tools or processes. When facing a setback, focus on what you learned rather than what went wrong.
4. Collaboration and Teamwork
Why it matters: Few roles operate in isolation. Being able to collaborate effectively across departments, cultures, and time zones is a critical soft skill in today’s interconnected work environment. Teams that work well together outperform those that don’t.
What recruiters look for: Candidates who show they can work with diverse teams, contribute ideas, listen, and compromise set themselves apart from other job seekers. Stories of joint success or resolving group challenges are particularly powerful in demonstrating this skill.
How to improve: Join team projects, volunteer for cross-functional initiatives, or take on a group role outside work. Focus on improving your active listening and conflict-resolution strategies.
5. Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking
Why it matters: Every job comes with unexpected challenges. Employees who can analyze issues, think critically, and offer practical solutions bring value to any organization. It’s not about having all the answers, but about knowing where to look for them.
What recruiters look for: Recruiters want individuals who are curious, analytical, and proactive. They’ll often pose hypothetical scenarios to gauge how a candidate approaches complex issues or ambiguity.
How to improve: Engage in activities that require logical reasoning, like puzzles, strategy games, or case studies. In the workplace, try to approach problems with structured frameworks and ask questions that dig beneath the surface to build this soft skill.
Final Thoughts
Soft skills are no longer nice-to-haves; they’re a must-have. As automation and artificial intelligence handle more technical tasks, human-centric skills will only grow in importance. Recruiters know that a team full of adaptable, emotionally intelligent, and communicative individuals will outperform one stacked solely with technical credentials.
“Over time, we’ve seen that communication, emotional intelligence, adaptability, collaboration, and problem-solving aren’t just soft skills; they’re the foundation of high-performing teams and a thriving workplace culture,” Johnson said. “As we look ahead in an increasingly tech-driven world, it’s these human-centered strengths that will continue to set exceptional talent apart.”
If you’re on the job hunt or looking to grow professionally, start by auditing your soft skills. Seek feedback from colleagues or mentors, invest in personal development, and look for opportunities to stretch these muscles in real-life scenarios.
In the end, your ability to collaborate, adapt, and communicate won’t just help you get the job: it will help you thrive once you’re in it.
