Wanted: Employees with strong interpersonal skills

Demand for employees with strong interpersonal skills have seen an increase in Australia following the COVID-19 pandemic, with remote job postings more likely to be in search of them, according to new research.

The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) published on Monday a new study that revealed how the pandemic heightened demand for employees who can work well with others.

In an analysis of over 12 million online job ads captured between 2015 and 2022, the researchers found that the stronger demand for interpersonal skills was driven by higher job postings seeking communication and collaboration skills.

"Despite this job seekers' market following the pandemic, we were surprised to observe a further acceleration of interpersonal skills demand across many occupations," said David Evans, lead author and CSIRO scientist, in a statement.

Evans said these results were unexpected as employers were more likely to manage their skills expectations amid periods of low unemployment.

Another unexpected result from the study was about how remote roles were 1.2 times more likely to mention interpersonal skills than face-to-face roles.

"You'd also be forgiven for thinking the rise of remote working arrangements might suit introverts or more independent workers," Evans said. "But the data shows working from home is not working alone."

Focus on soft skills

Evans said their findings indicate how soft skills are at the top of mind for many employers in Australia, pointing out how they should not be overlooked by jobseekers.

"This finding can help individuals' prioritise what skills to invest in developing. We also know that when employees' skills are aligned with employers' expectations, you have happier employees, lower turnover, and higher productivity," the CSIRO scientist said.

The research also reiterates the importance of having soft skills at work. Gen Z employees, whose education and careers were hit hard by the pandemic, have previously noted in other studies that employers need to prioritise soft skills advancement. This includes communication, leadership, as well as negotiation skills.

"Employers need to place soft skills advancement at the top of their priorities list while also experimenting with innovative, quick, and real approaches to communication and training which are mindful of their social discomfort," said James Micklethwait, VP of Kahoot! At Work, in a previous statement.