Recruitment Dynamics and Soft Skills in the Italian Labour Market

This paper investigates the evolution of soft skill requirements in the Italian labour market over the period 20162024, with an empirical focus on professional profiles operating in the tourism sector. Using administrative recruitment data provided by The Adecco Group Italy and occupational profiles classified according to the ESCO framework, the study adopts a three-way analytical perspective jointly accounting for job profiles, skills, and time. The original three-way data structure is unfolded into a two-dimensional matrix and analyzed through Weighted Factor Analysis to compare multivariate time trajectories of competencies. Socio-demographic characteristics are incorporated as supplementary variables to enrich interpretation. The results indicate a shift toward autonomy, initiative, and problem-solving skills, particularly in the post-pandemic period.