Employers and employees alike have weathered an unpredictable job market in the last few years. Thanks to social and economic challenges, plus technological advancements, everyone has had to adapt if they want to thrive. One change that is taking shape is companies hiring their employees based on skill and culture fit rather than educational credentials and work experience. At first glance, this may seem alarming to some, but in reality, it makes a lot of practical sense for employers to consider this hiring approach.
Why the Shift?
One reason companies are making the shift to consider skills and cultural fit more in the hiring process is that they understand how valuable these areas are to the company’s overall success. If a company hires a candidate who does not fit within the company culture, this new hire might leave for a different opportunity quickly or cause a bit of friction within the current team.
Another reason why hiring for skills is important is that with so many new technologies being developed, employers are often in search of candidates who are in need of specific skill sets. It’s often more valuable for companies to be able to hire candidates who can perform the skills required than to look at a certain amount of work history.
The Benefits of Hiring for Skills & Cultural Fit
If it’s still unsettling to think about hiring mostly based on skills and cultural fit within a company, consider these known benefits.
Skills First
One way that focusing on skills rather than educational or work experience is beneficial to a company is that it helps create a more inclusive workforce. Over the last several years, higher education has become increasingly expensive, but many employers are finding that the skills they might require are not found in the traditional university lecture hall. It’s more beneficial to employers to find employees who are skilled, regardless of whether or not they have the traditional higher education experience.
Cultural Fit
Employees who fit with a company’s established culture are more engaged, motivated, and productive. They also tend to be more loyal and likely to stay at the company, even in times of strain. When there is a good fit, new and old employees alike often mesh together, and dynamics are enhanced.
How to Hire for Skills & Culture
If making the shift for hiring priorities is intriguing, it’s best to focus on the required skills and then consider whether the candidates who have those skills might be a good cultural fit for your company.
Be sure to make job postings have clear, specific job descriptions that focus on the skills required. You’ll also want to include some information (it doesn’t have to be too detailed yet) about the company culture and what makes it unique.
Looking for Qualified Candidates That Will Fit in Your Company?
If you’re having a hard time finding candidates that have the skills and fit your culture, fill out our form to request a qualified employee or contact Expert Staffing.
