In the built form and infrastructure sectors, technical expertise often takes the spotlight—proficiency in software, design, or regulatory knowledge is non-negotiable. But what’s increasingly clear is that soft skills are equally critical to success.
The ability to collaborate, communicate effectively, interpret technical information in lay terms, and adapt to challenges can elevate a team from functional to exceptional. This is especially true in roles where business development and client management are key. Professionals in these positions need to engage clients, build trust, and translate technical solutions into tangible business outcomes.
At EPC Consulting, we know how vital it is to align the skill set of the individual with the role’s requirements. Whether the focus is on client management and business growth or pure technical delivery, finding that balance of technical expertise and interpersonal skills is the key to success.
What Are Soft Skills, and Why Do They Matter?
Soft skills are personal attributes that empower individuals to work effectively with others, navigate challenges, and succeed in complex environments. Think of them as the connective tissue that holds technical teams together—especially in client-facing roles or collaborative, high-stakes projects.
Key Soft Skills That Matter in Technical Roles:
Communication: Clearly articulating ideas, presenting technical findings, and engaging effectively with clients and stakeholders.
Problem-Solving: Adapting to challenges and finding creative, practical solutions.
Teamwork: Collaborating cohesively with colleagues to meet shared goals.
Leadership: Inspiring, motivating, and guiding others, regardless of their title.
Adaptability: Staying resourceful and flexible in a fast-changing industry.
Emotional Intelligence (EQ): Managing relationships and emotions to build trust with teams and clients.
Business Development: Building and nurturing client relationships, winning new work, and effectively managing client expectations.
Why Soft Skills Matter:
Even the most technically gifted professionals can struggle if they lack the interpersonal skills to build relationships, manage clients, or collaborate with their team. Success isn’t just about delivering results—it’s about how you get there.
How to Evaluate Soft Skills During Recruitment
At EPC Consulting, we understand that soft skills aren’t just “nice to have”—they’re critical, particularly in roles with a business development focus. That’s why we assess candidates holistically, looking at their technical abilities alongside their interpersonal strengths.
1. Behavioural Interview Questions
Behavioural questions help uncover how candidates have handled real-life situations, providing insights into their soft skills.
“Can you tell me about a time when you resolved a conflict within a team? How did you handle it?”
“Describe a project where you explained technical concepts to a non-technical client. How did you ensure they understood?”
“What’s your approach to managing client expectations during a challenging project?”
2. Scenario-Based Assessments
Presenting candidates with realistic job scenarios allows you to see their problem-solving and communication skills in action.
“Imagine a client questions your proposed solution shortly before a deadline. How would you address their concerns while staying on schedule?”
“How would you handle a team member missing a critical detail that impacts client deliverables?”
3. Evaluating Business Development Skills
For client-facing roles, we assess how candidates build and maintain relationships.
Do they enjoy the process of winning work?
How do they engage clients and communicate the value of technical solutions?
What strategies have they used to build trust and foster long-term client partnerships?
4. Collaborative Tasks or Trial Projects
Observing candidates during collaborative tasks reveals how they interact with others, share ideas, and manage challenges in a team environment.
5. Reference Checks Focused on Soft Skills
We ask targeted questions during reference checks to confirm candidates’ strengths:
“How did they contribute to team dynamics?”
“What was their approach to managing clients and winning business?”
Balancing Technical Expertise and Business Development Skills
Building a team that excels requires striking the right balance between technical proficiency and interpersonal skills. While technical expertise ensures the work gets done, business development and client management skills ensure the pipeline stays full and client relationships remain strong.
Tips for Integrating Soft Skills into Your Hiring Strategy:
Clarify Your Priorities: Identify which soft skills are critical for each role—whether that’s teamwork, adaptability, or business development.
Incorporate Soft Skills in Job Descriptions: Highlight requirements like client management or stakeholder engagement alongside technical proficiencies.
Reward Business Development Success: For client-facing roles, attach incentives or KPIs to winning new business or strengthening client relationships.
Create Role-Specific Goals: For business-focused roles, tie metrics to work won. For technical delivery roles, focus on project execution and quality outcomes.
Invest in Development: Offer training to strengthen interpersonal skills like negotiation, communication, and emotional intelligence.
Why Soft Skills Drive Long-Term Success
Soft skills are the foundation of long-term success, particularly in roles that require both technical expertise and client engagement.
Stronger Client Relationships: Employees with strong business development and interpersonal skills can build trust, foster loyalty, and win repeat work.
Improved Team Collaboration: Teams that communicate well and respect each other work more efficiently and effectively.
Enhanced Problem-Solving: Adaptable professionals who approach challenges creatively are better equipped to navigate the unexpected.
Boosted Retention: Employees who feel valued and empowered are more likely to stay, reducing turnover and building a stronger, more cohesive team.
Conclusion: Building Teams That Deliver Beyond Expectations
In today’s technical services market, soft skills are no longer optional—they’re essential. Whether it’s managing clients, building new business, or fostering collaboration within a team, the ability to connect with others is a game-changer.
At EPC Consulting, we specialise in finding candidates who bring both the technical expertise and the interpersonal skills to thrive in your team. We go beyond resumes and technical tests, ensuring every candidate is the right fit for your role’s unique demands.
Let’s work together to build a team that’s not just skilled—but unstoppable. Contact us today to find out how we can help you hire for success.