The communication skills that hiring managers value the most

Every year, hiring managers pay increasing attention to the communication skills of candidates during the hiring process. It is believed that employees with such skills can effectively address any problems, making them highly valued.

PR Daily journalists interviewed several public relations executives about the emerging trends. In turn, the experts shared their insights on the most crucial skills in the field of communications and offered guidance on how to develop them.

Data literacy and measurement

Measurement poses a perennial challenge for communications departments, and despite numerous solutions, selecting the right information has become more challenging than ever.

"As the profession embraces CommTech, the ability of communication leaders to interpret data, derive actionable insights, and measure effectiveness will be the most important skill set over the next five years," said Matt Ward, Head of Communications at Corebridge Financial.

"Those who can navigate the challenges of analysis will be the ones closest to success, achieving improved, targeted messaging, data-driven content strategy, and real-time benchmarking."

Systems thinking

Chelsea Luzeyro, Chief Public Affairs Officer at the American Psychological Association, believes that "the analytical gem of the future is systems thinking." In this context, it refers to the ability to clearly identify connections, locate the sources of problems, and recognize behavioral patterns.

Negotiation skills

Negotiation skills are an integral part of the "block" of systemic thinking. Luzeyro explained that the ability to negotiate is essential for communicators to manage personnel, time, and funds, finding solutions to achieve the best results.

"Power tends to constantly shift within groups depending on four variables: organizational structure, culture, organizational needs, and urgency," she said.

"Spending time building relationships within the organization benefits communicators and helps them identify and recognize shifts in power."

According to the expert, developing this skill requires mapping and creating a network of contacts, as well as defining one's own role within it.

Artificial intelligence? Yes, but with a caveat

Experts believe that AI and machine learning will completely transform communication processes.

The ability to leverage text generation, data analysis, and image processing tools using AI in an efficient and ethical manner can make communication specialists a powerful asset in any company's arsenal. However, managers caution against becoming too enamored with these technologies.

"I urge communication professionals to combine their excitement and interest in this and other technologies with a healthy dose of skepticism," said Chelsea Luzeyro.