Australia is experiencing a seismic shift in workplace dynamics, calling for a new perspective on recruitment. APSG Talent, a pioneering force in talent acquisition, is driving this change. We’ve been contemplating a pertinent question: in the Australian workforce, should we place more weight and value more highly will verses skill in our recruitment process? Whilst appreciating the importance and acknowledge the significance of both, we’re here to champion the idea that as long as core skills are present, in a team environment, will and passion have a definitive edge.
According to a comprehensive survey by Gallup, organisations which focus on the will of their employees over their skill set can experience a profitability increase of 21% (Gallup, 2021). The logic behind this is simple, yet profound and reinforces our philosophy: skills can be acquired, but the will to learn, adapt, and excel is a quality that emanates from within.
At APSG, we don’t underestimate the value of having technically qualified individuals. However, our recruitment strategies have evolved to place substantial emphasis on a candidate’s inner drive and passion. We see tremendous potential in a candidate who might not tick every skill box we require and may lack a comprehensive skill set, but who exhibits a robust willingness and enthusiasm to learn, presenting with a vibrant readiness to contribute to the team. This balance of skill and will, we believe, sets the foundation for our candidates’ long-term success in the Australian market and the intertwining of skill and will forms the crux of our strategy, ensuring our candidates enjoy long-term success in their future role.
Unfortunately, some employers in Australia make the critical mistake of insisting on strict skill sets, neglecting the importance of passion and adaptability in conjunction to identifying essential skills and establishing others that can be developed within the company. Research shows that companies overly focused on recruiting for specific skills often struggle with higher turnover rates and lower employee engagement (Harvard Business Review, 2021).
To attract and retain individuals who are both skilled and passionate, APSG champions the introduction of upskilling and reskilling programs within businesses. Such initiatives not only retain passionate individuals, but also foster a culture of continuous learning and progression. Research by the Australian Institute of Management showed that businesses that invest in reskilling saw a 32% increase in employee loyalty (AIM, 2022), which undeniably impacts the commercial value and culture of the business.
These programs also serve as a catalyst for transferring skills across different functions and roles, building resilience and versatility within the organization. This approach reduces the risk associated with reliance on key individuals for unique specialisations, thereby increasing organisational adaptability (Forbes, 2022).
Investing in employee development provides benefits beyond mere retention. A recent LinkedIn survey revealed that an astounding 94% of employees in Australia would stay longer at a company that invested in their learning and development (LinkedIn, 2022). This speaks volumes about the critical role that such investment plays in shaping a company’s reputation in the marketplace and driving its commercial success.
At APSG Talent, we believe in securing talent that balances skill and will. As your partner, APSG Talent can shape not just your future recruits, but also demonstrate how to sustain engagement and retain your existing team members for optimal culture and business success. Our approach is anchored in a deep understanding of Australia’s unique market dynamics, ensuring that our clients‘ teams are well-equipped with skills, but also brimming with passion, adaptability, and resilience.
Our unique approach to talent acquisition and retention sets APSG apart. We move beyond traditional recruitment methods, focusing on both skill and will, to create strategies that underscore passion and the capacity for growth. Our mission is to strike a balance between.
Contact us today to transform your business and the way you approach recruitment.
THE AUTHOR
Nathanael Deleon
Founder & Director – Australian Project Solutions Group
