Skills Alone = Not Enough

I recently read this Business Insider article titled “To Find or Keep a Job, Become a Specialist,” and it really hit home about what companies are looking for these days. Specialized skills are definitely in demand—think roles in IT, data, and sales where deep expertise brings an immediate impact. But here’s the thing: skills alone aren’t enough. If you want a team that’s truly going to grow with you in 2025 and beyond, you’ve got to dig deeper than a great resume.

So, how do you build a team that has both the right skills and the drive to keep learning? Here’s a simple guide that might help:

1. Get Clear on the Skills You Actually Need

First things first—what skills are going to make a difference for your team right now? The specialized skills you need might vary, especially if you're hiring for high-demand roles like sales or data. When you’re clear about the expertise you’re looking for, it makes everything easier. Are you looking for a sales pro with industry experience, or maybe an IT specialist who’s handled your specific tech stack? This clarity helps you target exactly who you need.

2. Look Beyond Skills: Find a Growth Mindset

Specialized skills are great, but the right mindset is what keeps someone valuable over time. Ask questions that reveal a candidate’s willingness to keep growing and adapting. Try something like, “Tell me about a time you had to learn something totally new on the job.” The way they answer gives you a window into their curiosity and adaptability, and that’s gold.

3. Think About Their Long-Term Impact on Your Team

Think about who this person will be a year from now, not just who they are today. You want someone who’s ready to keep growing and is open to stepping up when new opportunities arise. Look for cues in how they talk about their career or recent projects. Ask them about something they took on independently or how they’ve pushed themselves to learn something new. You’ll get a feel for their drive and how they see themselves evolving, which is invaluable for long-term impact.

4. Consider Bringing in Some Extra Help to Find That Perfect Mix

If this sounds like a lot to juggle—well, it can be. Finding people with both specialized skills and a growth mindset takes time and insight, which is where a partner like ProActivate can be a huge asset. We’re all about digging deeper, not just to find someone who fits the job description but who’s wired to keep growing and contributing over the long haul. When you’re ready to build a team that’s set up to drive results and stay adaptable, that’s exactly where we can help.

So, if you’re looking to build a team for 2025 that’s not just capable but ready to grow with your business, take the time to get clear on both skills and mindset. And if you want a hand with finding that perfect balance, we’d love to chat about how we can support you!