Why job skills could make or break your next interview

Many companies are adopting a new approach to hiring, prioritizing skills over traditional factors like education or experience. The percentage of U.S. online job postings that require a specific employment tenure has dropped by 10 percentage points in the past two years. The number of job ads without formal education requirements has also increased. Employers are increasingly emphasizing candidates’ practical skills and real-world experience over college degrees. This trend, known as skills-based hiring, is gaining momentum. It allows job seekers without degrees to access new career opportunities and can lead to higher retention rates and salary increases. However, some employers only make superficial changes to job ads and still prioritize traditional qualifications. Job seekers should focus on highlighting their skills in their resumes and be prepared for skills tests during the hiring process.