As an employer, it’s essential that you examine both a candidate’s hard skills as well as their soft skills. Generally speaking, hard skills refer to learned abilities – like the ability to use power tools or heavy machinery – while soft skills are a part of your natural personality. Some primary examples of soft skills include interpersonal skills, the ability to communicate effectively, and your prowess for leadership.
Hard Skills
In most cases, hard skills can be quickly and easily measured. They are also abilities that are required to fulfill the responsibilities of the job in question. Many of these hard skills are acquired through education or training, including apprenticeship programs, college classes, online courses, and even on-the-job training. Some helpful hard skills include:
- Data analysis and data mining: More and more companies are using big data on a day-to-day basis.
- Resource management and allocation: The ability to effectively allocate and manage resources is a crucial skill in many jobs today.
- Information technology: Including specific software and hardware knowledge.
- Project management: The ability to manage projects can set an applicant apart from their competition.
- Forklift operation: Some specialty skills, like forklift operation, may be necessary to fulfill job requirements in a manufacturing, warehouse, or industrial setting.
- Inventory control and stocking shelves: Skills like this are valuable in any company that maintains a stock of merchandise, spare parts, or tools.
Although skills like this aren’t relevant to every job, they’re becoming increasingly prevalent in occupations that require next-gen technology, collaboration, and consistency. Moreover, you’ll want to take some time to consider their soft skills, too.
Soft Skills
While there was a time where soft skills were overlooked in favor of hard skills, many employers now understand the value of soft skills. Some of the most desirable soft skills include:
- Interpersonal skills: Also known as people skills, this includes verbal and non-verbal interactions with co-workers, managers, and customers alike.
- Communications: Including persuasion, perceptiveness, and any foreign language skills.
- Problem-solving: And the ability to think outside of the box.
- Team leadership: Most employers have plenty of opportunities available for those who know how to lead and motivate others effectively.
- Time management: This one is particularly important, especially if the job requires multitasking on a day-to-day basis.
How Mega Force Can Help
If you need assistance finding qualified recruits in Charlotte, NC, who possess a mixture of hard and soft skills, look no further than the professionals at Mega Force! Contact us for more information to get started right away.
