Top 5 Soft Skills Hiring Managers Should Prioritize in Resumes

In our highly competitive job market, technical expertise alone doesn’t cut it. Companies need employees who not only excel in their specific roles but also bring essential soft skills to the table. As a recruitment agency dedicated to finding top-tier talent, Next Level Impacts knows firsthand how transformative these skills can be to a business’s success. Below, we outline the top five soft skills hiring managers should prioritize when reviewing resumes.

1. Communication Skills

Exceptional communication is the cornerstone of workplace success. Candidates with strong written and verbal communication abilities can articulate ideas clearly, collaborate effectively, and reduce misunderstandings—all of which contribute to a more productive work environment. Look for resumes that highlight experience in public speaking, leading team meetings, or crafting impactful reports.

Pro Tip: Pay attention to the candidate’s cover letter and resume presentation. These documents are often the first demonstration of their communication prowess.

2. Adaptability

In a rapidly changing business landscape, adaptability is crucial. Employees who thrive in evolving circumstances can help your organization stay ahead of the curve. Candidates who mention experience working in dynamic environments, embracing new technologies, or navigating company restructuring are likely to excel in this area.

Pro Tip: Phrases like “learning new systems” or “effectively managed change” signal adaptability on a resume.

3. Teamwork and Collaboration

The ability to work seamlessly with others is vital, particularly in team-oriented roles. Collaborative individuals can resolve conflicts, leverage diverse perspectives, and contribute to a positive workplace culture. Resumes that mention cross-departmental projects, team leadership roles, or collaborative achievements are worth a closer look.

Pro Tip: Look for quantifiable results tied to teamwork, such as “Worked with a team of five to increase operational efficiency by 20%.”

4. Emotional Intelligence (EQ)

Emotional intelligence—the ability to understand, manage, and express emotions—is an increasingly sought-after skill in modern workplaces. High EQ candidates can navigate interpersonal dynamics, offer empathetic leadership, and maintain composure under pressure. Phrases like “conflict resolution” or “mentored team members” often indicate strong EQ.

Pro Tip: Consider asking behavioral questions in interviews to gauge EQ, such as “Tell me about a time you managed a difficult team situation.”

5. Problem-Solving Skills

Employers value individuals who can think critically and approach challenges with innovative solutions. Resumes that highlight problem-solving accomplishments, such as optimizing processes or addressing client concerns, demonstrate a candidate’s ability to contribute meaningfully to your organization.

Pro Tip: Words like “strategized,” “streamlined,” or “innovated” suggest a problem-solving mindset.

Partner with Next Level Impacts to Identify Top Talent

Evaluating resumes for soft skills takes time and expertise. At Next Level Impacts, we specialize in identifying candidates who excel in both technical and interpersonal competencies. Let us help you build a team that not only performs but thrives in today’s fast-paced environment.

Contact us today to learn how we can support your hiring needs!