The Women in HVACR (WHVACR) held a workshop in conjunction with the 2018 Heating, Air-conditioning and Refrigeration International (HARDI) conference in Austin, TX on December 1, 2018. More than 40 industry members were in attendance, sharing ideas on leadership in hiring, growth as leaders and improving soft skills to improve business.

Takeaways were not to hire on impulse or based on emotions, utilize data such as predictive indexes and aptitude tests and hire based on character, not just skill sets. Regarding developing as a leader, reading, leaving your comfort zone, expanding your network of contacts and finding a mentor were suggested.

Development of soft skills in the workplace is finally gaining traction in the HVACR industry with employers valuing problem solving, creative thinking, communicating clearly, acting ethically and being empathic among the desirable traits in employees.

Visit www.whvacr.org for more information on the Women in HVACR organization.