Skills Development: 6 In-demand Skills Recruiters Look for on Your CV

An overview of the workplace and in-demand skills today

 

The modern workplace bears little resemblance to what it was a decade ago. What was once a rigid 8-to-5 environment defined by physical office spaces and linear career paths has transformed into a dynamic, fast-paced ecosystem where adaptability is vital. 

 

And so, as the workplace continues to evolve, so should we. 

 

A rapidly evolving environment

The global workforce has undergone a seismic shift, accelerated by technological advancements and external events such as the COVID-19 pandemic. In fact, according to the World Economic Forum, remote digital jobs are expected to rise by 25% by 2030. 

 

Many jobs can now be performed from home, which increases the prevalence of remote and hybrid work arrangements. Since Hybrid work is no longer a perk, but rather a norm, professionals are expected to navigate video conferencing tools, cloud-based project platforms, and asynchronous communication with ease.

 

Skills over job titles

Gone are the days when a university degree and job title defined your career potential. Recruiters find transferable skills and practical capabilities more important than ever, which is why skills-based hiring is revolutionising the hiring process. 

 

Take, for example, a former teacher transitioning into project management because of their strong communication, organisation, and problem-solving skills, even without formal training in the field. It’s a reminder that what you can do often matters more than what you’ve done.

 

Diversity and inclusion matter

In addition to skills, today’s workplace also prioritises human values. Companies are actively creating cultures that value diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Why? Because companies that implement these factors perform better. 

 

According to McKinsey, businesses that prioritise ethnic inclusion outperform companies that don’t by 27% financially.  

 

Continuous learning is essential

With technology and industries evolving at lightning speed, yesterday’s knowledge can quickly become outdated. Employees are expected to learn on the go and develop in tandem with environmental developments. 

 

For example, in the past, an HR professional may have been required to manage files manually. However, they now need to understand data analytics and employee experience platforms to remain relevant. The ability to upskill without pausing your career has become necessary for career success. 

 

Technology is a central driver

From artificial intelligence to automation, digital transformation is at the heart of the workplace. In fact, PwC South Africa reports that 72% of business leaders say they are increasing investments in AI and other emerging technologies to drive productivity and efficiency.

 

Employees are not only expected to use these tools, but they must also understand how to do so in an ethical and efficient manner. Think of customer service roles now requiring familiarity with AI chatbots or sales professionals needing to analyse CRM data to tailor pitches.

 

6 In-demand skills that recruiters are actively looking for

 

Here are six must-have skills recruiters are actively searching for, along with real-world scenarios to show how they matter in everyday roles:

1. Digital literacy

Whether you’re working in marketing, HR, sales, or even logistics, digital know-how is non-negotiable. From using productivity tools like Microsoft Teams and Google Workspace, to analysing basic data in Excel or navigating customer relationship management (CRM) software, digital fluency gives you a competitive edge.

 

• Real-life example: An administrative assistant who once managed physical filing systems is now expected to manage shared cloud drives, coordinate remote calendars, and prepare slide decks in Canva or PowerPoint. Knowing how to use these tools not only increases efficiency, but it also shows you’re ready for the modern workplace.

 

2. Communication skills

Strong written and verbal communication is at the heart of every high-functioning team. Whether it’s delivering presentations, writing professional emails, or providing constructive feedback, your ability to communicate clearly can significantly impact your professional image.

 

Recruiters look for:

 

• Articulate CVs and cover letters
• Confident interview conversations
• The ability to simplify complex information

 

3. Critical thinking

Employers want team members who not only follow instructions but also ask insightful questions and offer effective solutions. Critical thinking involves analysing situations, identifying possible outcomes, and making decisions based on logic and evidence, not just instinct.

 

For example, if a customer service agent notices recurring complaints about a specific product feature, rather than waiting for management to take notice, they can collect feedback, suggest improvements, and help implement a new process. 

 

4. Adaptability

Change is the only constant in most industries. Roles evolve, technology updates, and strategies shift. Employees who embrace change, rather than fear it, are viewed as assets.

 

As such, being open to change and able to pivot quickly is a key trait that employers look for in today’s fast-paced job market. 

 

During interviews, you can demonstrate adaptability by mentioning times you’ve taken on new responsibilities, helped implement a new tool, or quickly adjusted to remote or hybrid working environments.

 

5. Leadership and collaboration

Leadership isn’t just for managers – it’s about taking initiative, supporting teammates, and contributing to shared goals. Whether you’re leading a team or participating in one, the ability to mentor and collaborate across departments or cultures is highly valued.

 

Great leaders can think strategically, persevere despite obstacles, and keep their teams motivated throughout projects. 

 

6. Project management

From planning campaigns to rolling out new systems, project management skills help ensure goals are met on time and within budget. This includes managing tasks, resources, timelines, and stakeholder expectations, even if you’re not a certified project manager.

 

For example, a content creator managing a rebrand project might coordinate timelines between designers, editors, and marketing leads. Their ability to keep everyone on track, aligned, and meeting deadlines becomes a superpower – and a hiring advantage.

 

Why skills development courses are essential

 

Skills training is critical for employees and companies to remain competitive – inside the job market, as well as the industry as a whole. 

 

MANCOSA offers a range of skills development short courses that can help employees build these skills to benefit both themselves and the companies they work for. Some of the courses you can consider include: 

 

• Change Management, which teaches managers to effectively manage change while creating a culture of creativity and innovation.

 

• Diversity and Inclusion, which is a course that teaches employees and organisations to create inclusive workplaces where diversity is at the heart of what they do. 

 

• Professional Communication teaches employees to communicate effectively in various workplace settings, encompassing both verbal and written communication skills. 

 

• Conflict Management, which teaches individuals and organisations to effectively manage conflicts in the workplace. 

 

Register for a skills development course with MANCOSA

 

Now that you know how important skills development truly is for employees and organisations, you know that investing in quality skills training is a must. 

 

This is where skillME’s skills training short courses come in. You can explore the various courses we offer here.