Why Active Listening Is the Soft Skill That Can Land You the Job  

The Underrated Power of Communication in the Workplace 

When people talk about communication as a vital soft skill, the conversation usually centres on articulate speech, confident delivery, or persuasive storytelling. While those things matter, there’s a hidden layer of communication that too often goes unnoticed: active listening. 

The recruitment experts at Atkins Search have seen first-hand how active listening distinguishes top-tier candidates in interviews and in their job roles. In fact, many successful hires across the construction, consultancy, and freelance sectors we’ve placed attribute their career success to mastering this skill. 

Why Active Listening Isn’t Just About Being a “Good Talker”  

Great communicators are people who listen with intent and have a well-thought response. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that confidence and chatter are enough to impress. But we’ve found that clients are more engaged by professionals who take the time to understand, pause and respond thoughtfully. 

Active listening shows curiosity, emotional intelligence, and the ability to be a team-player. These are all key traits that our clients look for in a future candidate. 

How Active Listening Sets You Apart in Interviews and Beyond 

In interviews, candidates often focus on delivering rehearsed answers or “selling” themselves. However, those who truly stand out are the ones who ask specific, informed questions based on what they’ve heard. 

Interviewers notice when you’re genuinely tuned in. It doesn’t matter what role you’re applying for, both construction project manager roles and assistant quantity surveyor roles, must demonstrate they’re present, ask intelligent follow-ups, and show real interest to set you apart. 

Talking Opens Door, But Listening Gets You In.  

Being Interested vs. Being Interesting: What Candidates Get Wrong 

“Stop trying to be interesting. Start being interested.” – Sahil Bloom 

This shift in mindset is crucial. Too many candidates try to impress by dominating conversations, when the most memorable professionals are those who are curious, observant, and responsive. 

Managers deeply value those who are interested as you’ll show empathy, which helps them to build trust, ultimately building a connection. 

Active Listening in Recruitment: Why It Matters at Atkins Search 

As a specialist recruitment consultancy working across the built environment, we prioritise both technical ability and emotional intelligence in our placements. Communication is a cornerstone which means knowing when to speak and when to listen. 

Our team understands what employers in construction and consultancy sectors look for, and time after time, it’s the active listeners who thrive in client meetings, team collaborations, and leadership roles. 

Tips to Improve Your Listening Skills in a Professional Setting 

Here are some practical tips: 

• Pause before you reply: it shows you’re considering what’s been said. 

• Ask thoughtful follow-up responses: avoid scripted or generic replies. 

• Make eye contact and avoid distractions: put your phone away! 

• Summarise what you’ve heard: this ensures clarity and shows attentiveness. 

• Stay curious: believe that everyone has something valuable to teach you. 

• Ask open-ended questions: encourage further response 

• Withhold judgement: don’t provide advice 

With practice, these habits become second nature, and they’ll pay off in interviews, meetings, and career growth. 

Contact the team for any guidance on Active Listening 

Explore our job opportunities today 

FAQs About Active Listening and Interview Success 

Q1: What is active listening in the workplace? 

Active listening is the ability to fully concentrate, understand, respond, and remember what is being said in a conversation, showing genuine interest and engagement. 

Q2: How does active listening help in job interviews? 

It allows candidates to give thoughtful responses, ask relevant questions, and demonstrate emotional intelligence, which are all qualities hiring managers look for. 

Q3: Why is listening more important than talking during interviews? 

While speaking is important, listening shows humility, attentiveness, and the ability to absorb and act on information, which are all traits essential for any successful employee. 

Q4: How can I improve my active listening skills? 

Start by focusing on the speaker, avoiding distractions, pausing before you respond, and asking clarifying questions to show you’re engaged. 

Q5: Does Atkins Search value soft skills in its recruitment process? 

Absolutely. While technical expertise is crucial, soft skills like communication, teamwork, and listening are often the deciding factor in successful placements. 

Q6: What industries does this advice apply to? 

Although this blog focuses on construction, consultancy, and engineering, active listening is universally valuable across all industries.