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HBR On Leadership

When Hiring, Emphasize Skills Over Degrees

Feb 26, 2025
Ginni Rometty, the former Chairman and CEO of IBM and author of 'Good Power,' shares her insights on transforming hiring practices. She discusses her journey from adversity to leadership, emphasizing a skills-based approach to talent management over traditional degrees. Rometty underscores the importance of continuous learning and fostering a culture that values problem-solving and soft skills. She argues that this shift not only builds resilient teams but also cultivates inclusive workplaces, driving both business success and societal progress.
31:36

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Quick takeaways

  • Emphasizing a skills-first approach to hiring fosters inclusivity and enhances team performance by prioritizing competence over academic qualifications.
  • Promoting a culture of continuous learning within organizations is essential for adapting to market changes and encourages individual growth and development.

Deep dives

The Shift to Skills-Based Hiring

A skills-first approach to hiring and talent management is increasingly recognized as more effective than traditional credential-based methods. This perspective is championed by leaders like Ginny Rometty, who highlights the value of individuals demonstrating competence and adaptability over mere academic qualifications. By advocating for skills-based recruitment, organizations can broaden their talent pools, ensuring they include diverse candidates who may lack formal degrees but possess critical skills. This shift not only promotes inclusivity but also enhances the overall performance of teams by prioritizing the ability to learn and grow.

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