In Demand Skills for 2023

As technology rapidly evolves, hiring managers are searching for skillsets that are suitable for candidates who possess current knowledge about the latest technologies. A common hiring strategy companies are using is centered around a skills-based approach.  According to a 2022 Test Gorilla report, 76% of businesses use skill-based hiring because it enables companies to assess potential candidates based on the hard and soft skills they possess, which helps to create an equal opportunity for all candidates. Additionally, 91.4% of companies surveyed noticed that there is a decline in the time-to-hire a candidate given that skills-based hiring supports a more streamlined hiring process. If you are a candidate, you should start to think about which in demand skills you’ll need to strengthen your portfolio to help you secure a job.

What is the difference? Soft Skills vs. Hard Skills

Soft skills or durable skills are essential for any job. Soft skills include personal attributes and behaviors which help to demonstrate how a candidate interacts with others.  Soft skills are increasingly sought-after in various industries and professions, as they can prove to be a crucial differentiator between a candidate’s success and downfall. According to a recent Indeed survey, the most sought-after  characteristics of soft-skills include:

1. Problem Solving
2. Effective Communication Skills
3. Self-direction
4. Drive
5. Adaptability/Flexibility

Hard skills or technical skills are another important part of any successful career. Hard skills are quantifiable skills that can be taught in a training session, during school, or work experience. According to Glassdoor, the most common hard skills employers look for include:

1. Computer technology
2. Data Analysis
3. Marketing and Design
4. Project Management
5. Security and Network Structure

Nowadays, hiring managers are no longer searching for candidates who only exhibit hard skills such as technical knowledge. Instead, they are now focusing on investing in candidates who possess the combination of both hard and soft skills necessary to have a successful career. It is important for candidates to have a robust set of hard and soft skills so they can succeed in the role, enhance their performance, and become more adaptable to change.  Here’s a list of six hard and soft skills that are in high demand from employers in 2023:

1. Communication: Effective communication skills are critical for success in the workplace. Maintaining compelling communication skills enables you to speak and listen to others and express yourself effectively. Developing and maintaining effective communication skills also allows for transparent discussions between a manager and employee, which prevents possible misunderstandings. Identifying ways to respond in different scenarios is critical when it comes to maintaining strong communication skills. Applying effective communication skills to the interview process will help establish a tone of professionalism for future employers while providing them insight on who you are.
   • Types of communication include active listening, conflict resolution, negotiation, and public speaking.

2. Project Management: Project management skills are critical to develop regardless of the industry you work in. These skills require the technical knowledge needed to plan, implement, and successfully complete projects on time. Project management skills help enhance communication, improve efficiency and working with a team. Not only do these skills benefit the individuals who lead project teams, but these skills can also provide other employees with the understanding of what needs to be contributed to help guarantee the success of a project.
   • Types of project management skills include risk analysis, budgeting, resource allocation, and team management.

3. Research and Analysis: Collecting and analyzing data is a critical role in many jobs. By developing an in-depth understanding of how to interpret data, it can help you make informed decisions which could help support a company’s growth. As businesses invest in more accurate and advanced technology, having the skill to effectively decipher data in order to further the organization’s goals is a valuable skill that many employers seek out.
   • Types of research and analysis include database management, and forecasting.

4. Computer and Software Development: With the rapidly changing landscape of modern technological advancements, computer skills have become increasingly important for employees to maintain a specific level of competence when it comes to computers. Hiring managers are continually pursuing individuals who possess the knowledge and expertise to design, develop, and maintain software systems which help to improve efficiency and productivity. Furthermore, these skills are commonly used and desired in a variety of fields such as finance, healthcare, and even marketing.
   • Types of computer and software skills include understanding programming languages, like Python, Java, and JavaScript, and being able help with cloud computing.

5. Strategic Analysis: The ability to critically assess market trends, competitors, and internal abilities allows companies to make educated decisions. Strategic analysis helps companies adapt to evolving market conditions, while lowering risks, and acknowledging areas requiring improvement. Additionally, through using strategic analysis skills, businesses can develop effective strategies that align with their objectives.
   • Types of strategic analysis include internal analysis which helps to analyze the businesses strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats, and external analysis which focuses on the external elements that affect a company (Political, Economic, Sociological, Technical, Legal, and Environmental).

6. Marketing: Marketing is a versatile skill that’s become essential in providing support to sales, recruiting, and other professionals. Marketing supports businesses in differentiating themselves from competitors — whether that means enhancing online presence through search engine optimization (SEO), or campaign management.
   • Types of Marketing skills include search engine optimization (SEO), search engine marketing (SEM), design and social media.

Tips for including hard and soft skills on your resume

Incorporating hard and soft skills on your resume assists you in demonstrating to potential employers that you possess the required skills to perform the work effectively. Here are some tips for incorporating these skills:

1. Identify the skills required for the job: Thoroughly review the job description and identify the hard and soft skills that are required for the role. Through showcasing these skills in advance, you’ll capture the attention of hiring managers and maximize your chances of securing an interview.
2. Separate your hard and soft skills: Establish a separate section for hard skills and soft skills. By showcasing both types of skills on your resume, you can demonstrate a well-rounded set of skills that make you a valuable applicant for any position.
3. Use bullet points: Bullet points are a concise way to emphasize your accomplishments, skills, and experiences in an easy-to-read format. Bullet points also make it easier to hire a manager who can then quickly recognize your strengths for the position.
4. Be specific and concise: Offer specific examples of how you have applied your skills in prior roles. This demonstrates that you have practical experience and are not just regurgitating skills from the job description. Keeping your skills section concise and relevant helps the hiring manager figure out if you will be a good fit for the position.
5. Highlight your most relevant skills: Give priority to the skills specifically related to the job you are applying for. It will help grab the hiring managers’ attention which can make you a more compelling candidate.
6. Use keywords: Extract keywords related to the position from the job description in your skills section. This will help your resume to be reviewed by applicant tracking systems (ATS) and boost your chances of being chosen for an interview.

How Can PSM Help?

At PSM, we can provide IT recruiting services for businesses and institutions that need skilled IT talent.  We will take a consultative-based approach in which we become an extension of your recruiting team to find the right talent that can best handle your IT management or project needs. Additionally, we tech-screen candidates before they interview with the business to ensure the candidate has the requirements before the client speaks with them. Whether your business or institution needs skilled and knowledgeable staff to manage your systems or to work on a specific project, PSM Partners can help with our staffing services. To learn more, call PSM at (312) 940-7830 or submit a contact form today.