A recent survey by Indeed reveals that over two-thirds (67%) of employers prioritise soft skills over educational qualifications during the hiring process. The study, which included 500 employers and more than 1,000 UK workers with A-levels or equivalent qualifications, found that approximately 29% of workers were not asked to disclose their academic results when job hunting. Notably, less than 1% of UK job advertisements on Indeed now mention A-levels or degrees.

Kevin Fitzgerald, UK managing director of Employment Hero, emphasised the importance of soft skills, stating: "Soft skills are like the eggs and flour in a cake—they’re the essential ingredients that make it rise." He further explained that without these, "no matter how much or fancy toppings you add, the cake simply won’t rise to its full potential." Fitzgerald shared his personal experience, noting that while he left school without qualifications, his "ability to connect with people and think analytically" secured his first job as a trainee accountant.

Martin Drake, founder of Higher People, echoed this sentiment, highlighting that practical experience often outweighs academic degrees in the hiring process. He observed that candidates with practical experience but lower educational qualifications are more likely to succeed in applications than those with advanced degrees but no experience.

The Indeed report identified key practical skills imparted by A-levels and BTECs, including writing (32%), problem-solving (31%), time management (28%), and critical thinking and analytical abilities (26%). Complementing these findings, a LinkedIn report noted a 14.2% increase since 2021 in job ads not requiring a degree, with 90% of UK employers emphasiing the growing importance of soft skills.

For individuals seeking to assess and develop their soft skills, we're encouraging people to undertake the Entelechy "Character Challenge" - a free self-perception analysis. This transformative experience provides personalised insights into one's character, helping to identify strengths and areas for growth. By investing a few minutes in this comprehensive assessment, users can unlock valuable perspectives, enhancing both personal and professional development.

In today's evolving job market, while educational qualifications hold value, attributes such as tenacity, drive, and interpersonal skills are increasingly pivotal in career advancement. Engaging in self-assessment tools like the our Discover product, can serve as a foundational step toward understanding and cultivating these essential qualities.