The value of cross-cutting skills - hiring managers' views.

The article focuses on hiring managers' valuation of cross-cutting skills—broad, transferable skills applicable across disciplines—in entry-level hiring decisions. The study found that a college degree is the most important qualification, with work experience, life experience, and cross-cutting skills valued equally but secondary to the degree. Contrary to traditional managerial theory, hiring managers rated technical, human (interpersonal), and conceptual skills as equally important for entry-level roles. The research identified two clusters of cross-cutting skills—core skills (e.g., communication, teamwork, ethical judgment) and specialized skills (e.g., quantitative abilities, cultural awareness)—with no significant differences in importance within each cluster, though sector differences in skill valuation were observed. Additionally, since COVID-19, employers have placed increased emphasis on the application of knowledge, creativity and innovation, and awareness of global trends.