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AI recruitment: technical vs soft skills

AI-based recruitment tools are becoming increasingly popular, but, according to studies, they focus too heavily on technical skills, whereas employers want to recruit with a view to success and are therefore increasingly looking to identify soft skills as well.

Do AI tools focus primarily on technical skills?

Many companies use artificial intelligence to screen job applications more quickly. However, according to a UK study by City & Guilds, 69 per cent of employers believe that technical skills are given greater weight than social and personal skills (life or soft skills). At the same time, 74 per cent of the HR managers and executives surveyed consider skills such as communication, problem-solving and customer service to be more important for the company’s success.

A focus on learning skills

AI saves time in the recruitment process. This time should be used to get to know applicants better. A face-to-face interview is a better way to gauge how someone thinks, works with others and tackles new tasks. Learning skills and the ability to learn quickly are particularly sought after, especially among those just starting their careers: Representatives from Deel, an international recruitment platform, surveyed over 500 HR managers in the UK. When asked which skills they value most when selecting candidates for entry-level positions and those starting their careers, almost half (43 per cent) of HR managers cited the ability to learn.

Customer focus and the importance of soft skills

Particularly in a customer-focused sector, there is a need for a stronger focus on assessing emotional intelligence, social skills, problem-solving abilities and strong communication skills. It is worth questioning whether this is possible without sacrificing some of the cost and efficiency gains that technology and AI-based selection processes bring.

Division of labour between AI and human resources

Companies should therefore clearly define which human skills a role requires and assess these specifically. AI can take on routine tasks. However, the assessment of personality, potential and social skills should be carried out at an early stage by experienced human resources professionals.

Source: hrmagazine.co.uk