As we look ahead to the evolving demands of the workforce, one theme is clear: soft skills are no longer“ nice to have”— they are essential. At the top of the list are problem-solving and critical thinking skills. According to global research from McKinsey & Company, the World Economic Forum and LinkedIn Learning, these two capabilities are projected to be the most in-demand— and simultaneously the most lacking— by 2030. That presents both a challenge and an opportunity for today’ s hiring managers. |
ASSESSING SOFT SKILLS WITH INTENTION
Hiring for soft skills doesn’ t have to be guesswork. Here are five practical ways to build soft skill assessment into your hiring process:
1. BEHAVIORAL INTERVIEW QUESTIONS( STAR METHOD) Ask candidates to describe real situations using the STAR format— Situation, Task, Action, Result.
Example:“ Tell me about a time you resolved a team conflict.” This reveals how a candidate thinks, communicates and handles complexity.
2. ROLE-PLAYING SCENARIOS Simulate real situations to observe reactions under pressure.
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Example:“ What would you do if a colleague kept interrupting you in a meeting?” Watch for emotional intelligence and assertiveness.
3. GROUP EXERCISES Simulate a team task to observe collaboration, leadership and adaptability. This can highlight who listens, shares ideas and brings others along.
4. SOFT-SKILL-BASED WORK SAMPLES Incorporate ambiguity or interpersonal dynamics into assignments to assess problem-solving and communication skills.
Example: Ask a candidate to respond to a vague client email or an unclear internal directive.
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5. PEER INTERVIEWS Involve future teammates in the interview process to assess fit, communication and real-world rapport.
WHY IT MATTERS
Job postings for critical thinking have jumped more than 150 % in five years, yet many candidates are underprepared. Businesses that hire for soft skills report higher innovation, lower error rates and stronger team culture.
BOTTOM LINE: Soft skills drive hard results. When you build intentional assessments into your hiring process, you gain employees who adapt, grow and lead.
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Adaptability |
Handles change, thinks creatively |
1 = Resistant 5 = Flexible and agile |
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MEET THE EXPERT |
Teamwork
Emotional Intelligence
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Collaborates, resolves conflict
Self-aware, empathetic, responsive
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1 = Disengaged 5 = Team-oriented
1 = Reactive 5 = Highly attuned
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