Requirement Profile
Definition and Approach
Many companies underestimate the importance of the requirement profile in the recruitment process. If you're struggling to attract the ideal candidates for your company, the root cause may be an inadequate requirement profile. Read here what truly matters when creating one!
HR Knowhow | Recruiting strategies | Refline AG

What is a requirement profile?

A requirement profile is a structured summary of all essential attributes and skills a person should possess for a specific position within a company. Creating a requirement profile makes it easier to identify ideal candidates – and increases the chances of a successful hire.  

What should a requirement profile include?

A professional requirement profile should cover the following areas:

  • Qualifications: This category includes fundamental requirements such as education, training, academic degrees, or professional experience.
  • Technical skills: This section encompasses subject-specific knowledge and additional skills such as the use of software solutions, programming, or foreign language proficiency.  
  • Working methods: Which methodological competencies are required for the tasks? This might include analytical and solution-oriented thinking, time management, or interdisciplinary thinking.  
  • Social skills: Soft skills are equally important – such as teamwork, resilience, decision-making ability, assertiveness, creativity, or communication skills.  

How is a requirement profile created?

Creating a requirement profile is part of Human Resource Management and can be quite complex. Skilled recruiters think beyond the immediate need: they keep the company’s future in mind and take strategic development opportunities into account. Typically, the following steps are taken:  

  • Analysis: The first step is to develop a set of questions relevant to the open position. In which categories should the requirements be defined?  
  • Research: Involved departments and existing profiles provide insights into which qualifications applicants should have. External partners or clients may also be consulted.  
  • Structure: The data must now be structured and prioritised. Which requirements are essential, and which can be acquired through training or on-the-job learning? It's important to remain realistic.  
  • Formulation: Finally, the requirement profile is written. Clear language is key. Avoid obvious statements or generic phrases, as they weaken the profile.  

Modern software solutions from Refline can be a valuable aid in creating a professional requirement profile. They offer practical templates and allow you to query specific skills. Additionally, data can be updated at any time and reused for future vacancies – saving considerable time and resources.  

Why is a requirement profile important?

The requirement profile is the foundation for targeted and successful recruitment. It ensures that criteria are clearly defined and that applications are evaluated in a structured manner. For applicants, a detailed requirement profile is also helpful – it allows them to quickly assess their suitability and tailor their applications accordingly. In short: the requirement profile streamlines the application process for both sides.