Finding the Perfect Fit: Why Adaptability and Empathy are Shaping the Future of Association Hiring

In the world of association staffing, hiring trends are evolving in tandem with technological advancements and shifts in workplace culture. However, some core principles remain unchanged. Let’s explore what’s new, what’s staying the same, and how these insights influence the recruitment of association professionals.

What’s New

Recruiters are increasingly prioritizing “human” skills—sometimes referred to as soft skills—that enable professionals to thrive in dynamic environments. It seems as though one of COVID’s lasting legacies is the recognition that flexibility and adaptability are essential for associations to navigate challenges and thrive in uncertain times. Indeed, adaptability, empathy, and emotional intelligence have risen to the top of the must-have list. This is especially true in associations, where teamwork, member engagement, and a people-first approach are critical to success.

As technology like artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes industries, including associations, the ability to navigate digital tools is also becoming an essential skill. But while tech-savviness is valuable, it’s the balance of human connection and adaptability that allows candidates to stand out. As Angela Callen, Founder and Principal of Career Benders, Inc. points out, “Empathy, emotional intelligence, and adaptability rank at the top of the list in most-demand skills… continually impacted by AI—which is also a desirable skill, let’s not overlook that!”

What’s Staying the Same

Despite the growing emphasis on human-centric capabilities, the importance of aligning with the team’s priorities remains constant. A recruiter’s role is to ensure that the candidate possesses the necessary qualifications. “There’s a difference in what recruiters and hiring managers look for when evaluating candidates. A recruiter is looking for a high level of alignment with the qualifications and priority skills that the team has dictated,” says Callen.

However, beyond just checking boxes, the hiring manager and team often weigh cultural fit more heavily, ensuring the candidate complements the existing team. As the quote explains, “They will select the candidate who has 70% of the qualifications and is a great personality fit over the 100% qualified ‘unicorn’ who has a personality like a paper bag,” she adds.

What Associations Want in Today’s Market

With associations navigating rapid changes, flexibility has become paramount, and candidates who demonstrate this sought-after trait can win big, when it comes to benefits. As the Recruiting Team at HR Source states, “Candidates who are flexible and able to pivot with changing priorities/needs of an association in return are usually rewarded with a nice work-life balance and benefits package.”

In essence, the ideal candidate for associations is not just someone with a perfect resume but someone who has the flexibility to grow with the organization. The combination of essential qualifications and an eagerness to embrace change is a winning formula for those seeking to make their next career move, or break into the association space.