By Jan Iverson
Eight important factors to consider when looking at candidates for your workforce.
The pandemic has significantly impacted how we work and has led to changes in the hiring process and the skills companies value in new employees. While in the past, a “perfect” candidate may have been defined by attending prestigious schools, working for well-known companies, and possessing specific hard skills, the evolving landscape has shifted the focus to other important qualities.
- Adaptability and resilience: The pandemic forced organizations to quickly adapt to remote work and navigate uncertain and rapidly changing circumstances. As a result, employers now value candidates who can demonstrate adaptability, flexibility, and resilience in the face of challenges.
- Remote work capabilities: With the widespread adoption of remote work, companies have placed a greater emphasis on candidates who have experience and skills related to working effectively in a virtual environment. This includes proficiency in remote collaboration tools, self-motivation, time management, and strong communication skills.
- Digital literacy and tech skills: The pandemic accelerated the digital transformation across industries, making digital literacy and technology skills essential for candidates. Proficiency in using digital tools, data analysis, coding, cybersecurity, and other technology-related competencies is increasingly valued.
- Critical thinking and problem-solving: As organizations face complex and uncertain situations, the ability to think critically, analyze information, and solve problems has become crucial. Employers seek candidates who can approach challenges creatively, make sound decisions, and find innovative solutions.
- Communication and collaboration: Effective communication and collaboration skills are highly valued. Employers look for candidates who can communicate clearly, express ideas concisely, actively listen, and collaborate seamlessly with remote teams.
- Emotional intelligence: The pandemic highlighted the importance of empathy, understanding, and emotional intelligence in the workplace. Companies recognize the value of candidates who can navigate interpersonal relationships, show empathy towards colleagues and clients, and demonstrate self-awareness.
- Continuous learning and adaptability: The rapidly changing business environment necessitates a continuous learning mindset. Employers prioritize candidates who demonstrate a willingness to learn, upskill, and adapt to new technologies and industry trends.
- Remote leadership: As remote and hybrid work models become more prevalent, leadership skills tailored to virtual settings are highly sought after. Employers look for candidates who can effectively lead and manage remote teams, provide guidance, and foster collaboration in a virtual environment.
While hard skills and academic achievements still hold value, the pandemic has emphasized the importance of these additional qualities and skills. Employers now recognize that the ability to navigate uncertainty, embrace new technologies, communicate effectively in virtual settings, and demonstrate resilience and adaptability are crucial for success in the post-pandemic workplace.
Jan Iverson is Head of Studio at FS Studio and an award-winning product leader with over 20-years of extensive experience in digital media and marketing, with a specialization in the design and development of AR, VR and 3D activations: mobile apps, games, LBE, sales tools, digital twins; with XR cross-platform content development, and a track record of success in leading award-winning digital creative teams. Virtually Human is her bi-weekly series.
