Want to work as a data scientist? SHIVAM DUTTA lists qualities that recruiters are looking for in a candidate while hiring
A data scientist’s job is one of the most demanding as well as challenging jobs of the 21st century. The position requires a robust set of skills and a strong mentality. Most recruiters prioritise technical skills. However, skilled data scientists also possess qualities that a skill test cannot identify. Here are some of the qualities recruiters should look for while hiring a data scientist.
The must-have soft skills: Any job in the world requires a creative mind, and so does the position of a data scientist. A creative thinker is an asset for any organisation. Moreover, an ideal candidate is always curious, enthusiastic, and a continuous learner. The data science industry is constantly evolving, and they should be able to cope with the latest trends in the industry. Every job in the world comes with ups and downs, hence handling failures and staying motivated and calm is an essential skill. Apart from the skills mentioned above, a perfect candidate must have strong communication skills.
Technical expertise: The perfect data scientist understands programming, machine learning, statistical analysis and Big Data. Moreover, hardcore coding and debugging skills are essential. Hence the array of technical skills is inadequate without programming languages like Java and Python.
While technical skills are a must to become a data scientist. A data scientist must have a few specific skill sets that comprise of some factors like:
- Adaptability: An ideal data scientist must adapt. Sticking to a single strategy may not work every time, so they should change as the world changes and the situation demands.
- Risk analysis: As a data scientist, one would have to make multiple decisions on various levels and time frames. Any critical decision should be made after taking time to analyse its repercussions including the risk associated.
- Finding patterns in a mess: The role of a data scientist is more creative than technical. A recruiter can test this quality very quickly.Accountability: Decision-making encompasses not only risk analysis but also accountability. An ideal candidate should be able to make a decision and stand by it with full faith.
- Statistical thinking: Anybody new to data science might have an inclination or subconscious intuition towards a specific outcome, but they should develop statistical thinking.
Apart from the skills and qualities mentioned above, some additional aspects should be considered before hiring in the field.
Hacker’s spirit: A data scientist should be seen as no less than a hacker. Their approach to any sort of problem should be like that of a hacker. The recruiters should look if the candidate has a crazy motivation to solve the problem or not.
Balance of business and technical understanding: A data scientist must possess both business and technical understanding of a project or problem. Both these qualities should not overlap and should be in equilibrium. This quality is worth looking for as a recruiter.
Ability to take ownership of projects: An experienced recruiter will always make sure that the person they hire is worthy and confident enough to take ownership of their assigned projects.
Ability to simplify concepts: An ideal candidate must be able to simplify complex structured problem statements into workable matter. This quality is essential to have in this domain.
