How to evaluate soft skills during the hiring process for long-term success
When it comes to hiring top talent, skills like communication, adaptability, and teamwork are just as important as technical expertise. At Australasian Recruitment Company, we’ve seen time and again how crucial soft skills are to long-term success within a role. Here’s how you can evaluate them during the hiring process to ensure you’re bringing in the right people for the job.
Look beyond the resume
While a resume is a great starting point, it’s not the full story. Soft skills often don’t show up on paper, so it’s essential to dig deeper. Take the time to understand how candidates communicate, collaborate, and problem-solve. Ask about specific experiences where they had to adapt to change or handle a challenging situation. It’s not just about what they’ve done, but how they’ve done it.
Ask the right questions
Structured interviews can be your best tool for assessing soft skills. Consider asking behavioural questions that give insight into how a candidate reacts in different situations. Questions like, “Tell me about a time when you had to deal with a difficult team member,” or “How do you approach learning a new skill or system?” can reveal important qualities like emotional intelligence, resilience, and a willingness to grow.
Use situational assessments
Instead of relying solely on verbal responses, consider using situational assessments. These exercises simulate real-life challenges the candidate may face on the job, allowing you to observe their problem-solving abilities, communication style, and teamwork. Whether it’s a group activity or a role-play scenario, these practical tests give you a clearer picture of how a candidate might behave in the workplace.
Assess cultural fit
Cultural fit is often tied to soft skills like emotional intelligence and interpersonal communication. It’s important to assess how a candidate will mesh with your team’s values and dynamics. To do this, have them meet with team members in an informal setting or ask questions that align with your company’s culture. A candidate who values collaboration and transparency will thrive in an environment that prioritises those same qualities.
Get feedback from others
After an interview, it can be helpful to involve others in the evaluation process. Ask colleagues or team members who have worked closely with the candidate to weigh in on their communication style, adaptability, and overall fit. Multiple perspectives can provide a more rounded view of the candidate’s soft skills and help you make a more informed decision.
Prioritise long-term potential
Soft skills often play a huge role in how a candidate grows within an organisation. During the hiring process, consider how they might evolve over time. Are they open to feedback? Are they motivated to improve? Soft skills like self-awareness and a growth mindset can be indicative of a candidate’s long-term potential and ability to succeed in your company.
Why soft skills matter
In a fast-paced and ever-changing work environment, employees with strong soft skills are more likely to navigate challenges, contribute to a positive team culture, and remain engaged in their roles for the long haul. By focusing on these qualities during the hiring process, you’re setting up your team for success both now and in the future.
At Australasian Recruitment Company, we’re experts at finding candidates who not only meet your technical requirements but also bring the right soft skills to the table. We understand that the right mix of hard and soft skills is key to building teams that can adapt, collaborate, and grow together.
Looking to hire?
If you’re ready to find candidates who are a perfect fit for your team, get in touch with the team at Australasian Recruitment Company. We’re here to help you evaluate both the technical and soft skills that will lead to long-term success for your business.