The Rise of New-Generation Hiring: Experience Outranking Degrees in iGaming

The Shift Towards New-Generation Hiring

In a time where experience in the workforce is rapidly evolving, a recent report from SOFTSWISS, a prominent global software provider for iGaming, and recruitment consultancy Pentasia has shed light on how hiring practices are changing fundamentally. The report indicates that companies are moving away from traditional hiring methods that prioritize university degrees and are focusing more on demonstrable skills and relevant experience.

The Findings

According to the findings, it is suggested that by the year 2030, as much as 60% of new job roles may not require a traditional university degree. This trend reflects the rising demand for what are termed 'new-generation roles', which emphasize practical skills and specialized knowledge rather than formal qualifications. Such a shift is based on comprehensive analysis using LinkedIn data, surveys from various businesses, and an extensive review of hiring trends within the iGaming sector for the year 2025.

The report contends that businesses are stepping back from large-scale entry-level hiring and concentrating on mid to senior-level professionals who can contribute immediately and effectively to the organization. Following an aggressive recruitment strategy during the pandemic's tech boom, many companies are now focusing on efficiency and measurable outcomes rather than merely expanding their personnel count.

Changes in Talent Acquisition

Alastair Cleland, Managing Director of Pentasia, remarks that entry-level positions are losing priority. Companies are now favoring candidates with intermediate or higher experience, specifically highlighting the increasing importance of AI-related skills across various roles. Artificial Intelligence is reshaping entry-level jobs by automating routine tasks, which in turn reduces the need for junior roles in areas like data entry, basic programming, and research. This has led organizations to seek more experienced individuals who can navigate complex environments and drive significant results.

Furthermore, automation and AI technologies are reducing the labour required for repetitive tasks while simultaneously increasing the demand for analytical, monitoring, and decision-making skills. Many organizations are beginning to view AI literacy as a fundamental requirement for a growing number of roles. However, high-responsibility positions, especially in sectors like engineering, DevOps, and cybersecurity, continue to be the hardest to fill due to their specific skill demands.

Denis Romanovskiy, AI Director at SOFTSWISS, notes that most vacancies in engineering today are for high-responsibility roles. The expectation is that a new hire should add value within weeks of joining. Engineers are subjected to rigorous interviews that include coding assessments and system design evaluations, where their systems thinking and interpersonal skills are also critically examined. The ability to effectively use AI tools in their daily work has become an unspoken standard among these candidates.

Global Reach and Remote Work Emphasis

The digital job market is now increasingly global, with a strong emphasis on remote work. This trend allows companies to recruit talent from anywhere, breaking geographical barriers and enabling employers to access a wider pool of professionals, irrespective of their locale. This transformation in hiring practices not only demonstrates the industry's need for adaptable and capable talent but also showcases the innovation-driven atmosphere of the iGaming sector.

About SOFTSWISS

Founded in 2009, SOFTSWISS has become a leading technology provider offering award-winning software solutions tailored to the iGaming industry. With a team of over 2,000 professionals, SOFTSWISS serves over 1,000 international brands, continually adapting its recruitment strategies to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving market landscape.

In conclusion, the findings from SOFTSWISS and Pentasia illustrate a notable paradigm shift in how businesses approach hiring. The increasing valuation of experience and demonstrable skills over traditional educational qualifications is reshaping the future of work, particularly within the iGaming sector. As companies adjust to these new realities, they pave the way for a more innovative and capable workforce.