At Global Highland, we understand that the most effective hires are those who can truly deliver—people with the right skills, not just the right credentials. What matters most is what someone can do, not how they learned to do it.
According to LinkedIn’s Skills-Based Hiring: Increasing Access to Opportunity report, shifting to a skills-first approach significantly broadens access to talent—particularly among individuals without degrees, women, and younger job seekers. In fact, employees without a degree stay with companies 34% longer than those with traditional academic qualifications.
When recruitment is filtered primarily through degrees or top university names, businesses risk overlooking a much wider and more diverse pool of capable candidates. Many of today’s most skilled professionals have gained expertise through non-traditional routes—online learning, self-directed development, or hands-on experience in the workplace.
What’s Next: The Skills That Will Shape the Future Workforce
Skills-based hiring isn’t just a more inclusive approach—it’s also essential for building a future-ready workforce. But what are the key skills employers should prioritise? The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025 identifies the top 15 skills projected to be most in demand by 2030. These are shaped by technological disruption, demographic change, and the global shift toward sustainability:
Top 15 Future Skills:
These aren’t just buzzwords—they are fast becoming core capabilities in high-growth industries. For example, AI Specialists must balance analytical thinking with adaptability and curiosity, while roles in Customer Experience demand strong empathy, tech fluency, and a commitment to service.
As demand continues to grow for roles such as Data Analysts, AI and Machine Learning Specialists, Software Developers, and Digital Transformation Leads, hiring for skills over pedigree will be critical to remaining competitive—and inclusive.