Brazil firms shift hiring focus to behavioral skills and AI competence

A study by the Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná (PUCPR) surveyed more than 7,000 respondents and found that 60% of the attributes most valued by Brazilian companies are behavioral, such as adaptability and continuous learning. The research notes a marked change from the pandemic period, when technical skills accounted for 56%–68% of employer demands. PUCPR Careers coordinator Luciana Mariano said, "Today, companies look for professionals who can learn continuously and work collaboratively in increasingly dynamic contexts."

The Catho 2026 Trends Survey echoed this shift, reporting that 61.7% of firms consider emotional intelligence the most important soft skill, while artificial‑intelligence knowledge leads the list of hard skills at 47.9%. Fabio Maeda, director of Growth & Experience at Redarbor Brasil, explained, "Knowing AI tools and using them responsibly now represents a competitive advantage, but human skills like emotional intelligence remain decisive."

Both surveys highlight that Brazilian employers now prioritize a blend of behavioral competencies and digital/AI proficiency when hiring, especially for entry‑level positions.