AS THE jobs market in Yorkshire becomes increasingly crowded, it’s interesting to see that 79 per cent of businesses in the region rate a can-do attitude and soft skills, such as interpersonal and communications skills, as the most important attributes they looked for when recruiting new workers.

With an influx of applicants fighting for fewer vacancies, from university leavers competing for a small pool of graduate schemes to a host of 18-year-olds entering the job market for the first time, it’s no surprise that businesses are spoiled for choice.

With “street-smart” fast overtaking “book-smart”, applicants in Yorkshire will be well advised to showcase their personable side in interviews, as businesses increasingly look for workers with the right soft skills.

Ed Critchley, Head of business markets, Yorkshire, Virgin Media Business.