As AI becomes integrated into hiring processes and everyday work, human-centric skills are becoming even more essential. We asked our IQVIA recruiters about this trend, and there was a clear consensus: technical proficiency still matters, but it’s no longer the only differentiator.
“As AI capabilities expand, the hiring managers today are looking for what AI can’t do: human-centered soft skills, like collaboration and empathy,” said Nikhil Agarwal, director of Talent Intelligence & Analytics at IQVIA. “We are increasingly encouraging candidates to showcase these alongside their technical prowess in resumes.”
Recruiters want to understand:
How you solve problems
How you work with others
How you communicate
How you adapt
How you handle ambiguity
These qualities influence who thrives in complex, fast-moving environments — like those at IQVIA.
In the modern hiring process, it’s no longer enough to list “team player” or “strong communicator.” Hiring managers expect you to show what those traits look like in practice. Instead of “excellent communicator,” try:
Facilitated cross-functional alignment across three departments
Presented findings to senior leaders to inform decision making
Instead of “team player,” try:
Collaborated with clinical, data and operations teams to complete a project two weeks ahead of schedule
Offering concrete examples can transform soft skills into meaningful differentiators for hiring teams.
Do you have a career gap in your resume? Our recruiters recommend using it to show off your soft skills. “Employment gaps are more common than ever,” said Ashley Sloan, senior recruiter at IQVIA. “The good news is that these gaps no longer carry the stigma they once did. Be transparent with these gaps and use them as opportunities to show us how you used the break to adapt, grow and ready yourself for re-entry to the workforce.”
Check out our video to hear Ashley's advice for career gaps:
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