The eternal battle between “experience versus skill” in hiring decisions is an ongoing debate that has yet to be settled. While traditional companies place great importance on “experience” as a vital metric for career success, startups prioritize “skills.”
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a seismic shift in the hiring practices of companies worldwide, including the data science industry. According to a LinkedIn study, more than three-quarters of job postings in the APAC region on the platform now focus on skills over qualifications or industry experience.
However, the question remains: Does this mean that experience no longer holds any power in hiring decisions? The answer is not straightforward. While being proficient in cutting-edge technology is critical, it may not be enough to succeed. It is difficult to gain good domain knowledge simply by taking a course or reading a textbook; hands-on experience can make a significant difference. Let’s delve deeper into the skill versus experience debate in a more nuanced way.
The data science field requires individuals to undergo a steep learning curve. Aspiring data scientists must be able to quickly and efficiently master a range of skills, including solid educational backgrounds, technical abilities, and interpersonal skills. They must also be able to communicate complex statistical information to stakeholders effectively.
Data science is a dynamic field that requires professionals to wear many hats. On any given day, a data scientist may have to assume the role of a software engineer, data miner, or business communicator. As AI and machine learning applications continue to advance, the competencies required of a data scientist are constantly evolving.
Data science calls for core competencies, including mathematics and statistics, computer programming, and domain knowledge. Mathematics and statistics form the foundation of data science, and knowledge of these subjects can be acquired through good courses or self-learning.
The ever-evolving nature of data science, combined with the rapid advancement of technical tools, can make it difficult for individuals and organizations to identify the necessary skills for a project at hand. That is why most data scientists’ job descriptions emphasize specific skills. However, it is crucial to consider the transient nature of these skills. What may be an in-demand skill today may become entirely obsolete tomorrow.
Domain or business knowledge is a key competency for data science. Real-world experience in an industry often provides better domain knowledge. For example, working in the marketing or retail field will give an individual better knowledge than reading a textbook on marketing or retail.
Soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, and stakeholder management are also vital in data science. While the basics can be learned in a short time, it often takes years of practice and experience to master the subtle art of communication, problem-solving, and stakeholder management.
Data science requires hard skills that can be learned through courses or college degrees and do not necessarily require extensive industry experience. However, other aspects of the job cannot simply be learned through a year-long crash course.
The skill versus experience debate needs to be looked at from various angles. For example, if a company is hiring for a junior data scientist role, experience may not be as significant as long as the individual is willing to take on challenges, as the rest can be learned on the job. On the other hand, when hiring for a senior position, a combination of skills and experience is necessary. A leader of a large data science team will require a stronger grasp of domain knowledge and stakeholder management, which can be gained through years of experience and practice.
In conclusion, the skill versus experience debate in data science hiring is multifaceted and requires a more nuanced approach. A combination of both skills and experience is essential for long-term success in the field. While technical skills can be learned through courses, real-world experience provides valuable domain knowledge, soft skills, and stakeholder management expertise that cannot be replicated.
