Use of competency-based interviews for the assessment of soft skills in public service

doi:10.26565/1992-2337-2025-1-41

Vadim Ievdokymov Education and Research Institute of Public Administration of V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University, 4 Svobody Sq., Kharkiv, 61022, Ukraine https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0620-4939
Lyudmila Naboka Education and Research Institute of Public Administration of V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University, 4 Svobody Sq., Kharkiv, 61022, Ukraine https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8719-823X
Alisa Kosenko Education and Research Institute of Public Administration of V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University, 4 Svobody Sq., Kharkiv, 61022, Ukraine https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4006-2295

DOI: https://doi.org/10.26565/1992-2337-2025-1-41

Keywords: public service, soft skills, flexible skills, competency-based approach, competency-based interview, personnel assessment, professional competence

Abstract

The article investigates the application of competency-based interviews for assessing soft skills in the selection of personnel for public service in Ukraine. Effective performance of public authorities under constant changes and challenges requires public servants not only professional knowledge but also appropriate personal qualities and soft skills. An analysis of the current Ukrainian legislation, including the Law of Ukraine "On Civil Service" and regulations of the National Agency for Civil Service, was carried out. International experience in behavioral interviewing, particularly in the EU and the USA, was examined, demonstrating a high level of efficiency of this method for objective and comprehensive candidate assessment. The main advantages and potential challenges of using this method under Ukrainian conditions have been identified, along with specific ways to overcome them, including developing competency profiles, training interview panel members, ensuring transparency of assessment procedures, and combining interviews with other assessment methods. It is concluded that implementing competency-based interviewing will improve the quality of recruitment in the civil service, ensuring professional and effective performance by public servants during reforms.

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Author Biographies

Vadim Ievdokymov, Education and Research Institute of Public Administration of V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University, 4 Svobody Sq., Kharkiv, 61022, Ukraine

PhD of Economical Sciences, Associated Professor, Associated Professor of Public Administration and Public Service Department, Education and Research Institute of Public Administration of V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University

Lyudmila Naboka, Education and Research Institute of Public Administration of V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University, 4 Svobody Sq., Kharkiv, 61022, Ukraine

PhD in Public Administration, Associate Professor, Head of Public Administration and Civil Service Department, Education and Research Institute of Public Administration of V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University

Alisa Kosenko, Education and Research Institute of Public Administration of V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University, 4 Svobody Sq., Kharkiv, 61022, Ukraine

PhD in Public Administration, Associate Professor, Associate Professor at the Department of Economic Policy and Management, Education and Research Institute of Public Administration of V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University

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