58% of employers mention personal skills as important when selecting candidates for interview. But why is it so important – and how can you use it to your advantage?
More than professional skills
When employers evaluate candidates, they look at more than education and experience. They want to know what kind of colleague you'll be. Can you work with others? How do you handle pressure? Are you someone who takes initiative?
These are your personal skills – and they're becoming increasingly important in the modern job market.
What the research says
Research shows that personal skills play a significant role in hiring decisions:
- 58% of employers mention personal skills as important when they select candidates for interviews
- Personal skills are the third most important factor after experience and education
- Many companies hire "for attitude, train for skills" – meaning they prioritize personality over technical abilities
This means that how you present your personal qualities can be just as important as your qualifications.
Why employers focus on personal skills
There are several reasons why personal skills have become so important:
- Team collaboration: Most work today happens in teams. Your ability to cooperate and communicate affects the entire team's performance.
- Cultural fit: Companies want employees who fit their culture and values. Personal skills reveal whether you'll thrive in their environment.
- Adaptability: The job market changes rapidly. Employers value employees who can adapt and learn new things.
- Client relationships: Many roles require interaction with clients or customers. Your personal skills directly affect the company's reputation.
Personal skills vs. professional skills
It's important to understand the difference between the two types of skills:
Professional skills
Technical abilities you've learned through education or experience. Examples: programming, accounting, languages, specific software.
Personal skills
Character traits and behaviors that affect how you work. Examples: teamwork, communication, problem-solving, leadership.
Both types are important – but personal skills are often what distinguishes one qualified candidate from another.
How to use this in your job search
Knowing that employers value personal skills gives you an advantage:
- Study the job posting for personal requirements and match them in your application
- Use concrete examples that demonstrate your personal skills
- Prepare for interview questions about your personality and working style
- Be authentic – employers can spot fake personalities
Key takeaways
- 58% of employers mention personal skills as important for interview selection
- Personal skills are the third most important factor after experience and education
- They help employers assess team fit and cultural alignment
- Use concrete examples to demonstrate your personal skills