Skills-based hiring is a recruitment approach in the candidate screening process that prioritizes a candidate's demonstrated abilities and competencies over traditional credentials like degrees or job titles. It focuses on what a candidate can actually do rather than where they went to school or what their resume looks like on paper.

This approach helps organizations access a broader, more diverse talent pool and reduces the risk of credential-based bias. It is particularly valuable in industries where practical expertise and on-the-job performance matter more than formal qualifications.