Psychologists from the University of Groningen in the Netherlands have found that working remotely reduces the importance of social skills at work. The findings of the research scientists have been published. magazine Journal of Personality and Individual Differences.
Almost all businesses have switched to remote working during the pandemic process. Some companies still apply this format, which affects employee hiring. Previously, companies preferred candidates with highly developed social skills (sociability, courtesy and friendliness), but now they are turning to professional competencies (intelligence, ambition and craftsmanship).
The authors of the study conducted two experiments. In the first, the researchers asked 304 people to review the resumes of candidates for telecommunications and office jobs. The results showed that overall, participants were more likely to recommend a highly competent candidate for remote work more often than a candidate with advanced social skills.
In the second study, the researchers conducted a field experiment with recruiters as participants. About 300 recruiters read the job description and were asked to choose one of the two candidates sent to them. If the vacancy required working in an office, recruiters would select people with social skills. If the form is remote, then with a high level of proficiency.
The overall results show that remote work can change companies’ requirements for the skills and characteristics of their employees.