With 97% of IT leaders planning to expand their cloud systems, the demand for cloud experts is set to climb sharply. As these systems grow more complex, the need for talent who can manage, secure, and optimize cloud infrastructures becomes critical. Hiring managers face the challenge of identifying candidates who not only meet technical requirements but also bring the expertise needed to drive success. So, what sets top candidates apart? In this article, we’ll break down five key cloud skills hiring managers should target when building a high-performing team.

1. Cloud Architecture and Design

A solid system architecture is crucial for scaling and running operations smoothly while keeping costs in check. Without this, businesses can face performance issues or higher expenses. To find the right candidates, look for those with experience on platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud. They should not only have used these services but also designed scalable solutions that meet specific business needs.

During interviews, ask them about projects where they’ve built or optimized cloud architectures. Have them explain how they handled challenges like bottlenecks or cost issues. If they can clearly walk you through their technical decisions, it’s a good sign of their expertise.

Consider their commitment to continuous learning as well - candidates who engage in ongoing education through expert-led courses on platforms like DataCamp tend to stay updated with emerging trends and best practices.

2. Cloud Security

Cloud security is a big concern, with threats like data breaches and unauthorized access constantly in the news. Every cloud platform has built-in security, but users are still responsible for their part. When things go wrong, it can lead to data leaks, costing companies financially and hurting their reputation. That’s why cloud security experts are in high demand.

Look for candidates with a strong understanding of encryption technologies for securing data at rest and in transit. Experience in identity management is also important to ensure only authorized people access critical systems.

Compliance is another key area. Candidates should know about regulations like GDPR or HIPAA, which govern how businesses handle sensitive data. Their expertise can help your company stay compliant, avoid costly penalties, and establish a secure cloud infrastructure. 

3. Data Management and Analytics

With the explosion of big data, companies need people who can manage and analyze huge datasets stored in the cloud. Candidates with experience in data analytics tools like Tableau or Power BI are a big asset. Database management is also crucial, so look for familiarity with systems like Amazon Redshift or Google BigQuery.

It’s also helpful if they’re skilled in knowledge management tools to organize and retrieve information effectively across teams.

4. DevOps and Automation

DevOps helps streamline cloud operations by bringing development and operations together. Candidates should know how to use CI/CD pipelines, which are key for automating software delivery. Experience with tools like Terraform is also valuable for managing infrastructure through code instead of manual configurations.

Hiring professionals adept in these areas not only fortifies your team’s ability to deploy robust applications but also strengthens collaboration across departments, which will lead to better internal communication.

5. Soft Skills and Leadership

Soft skills may not be technical orientated, but they’re just as important. You want your cloud experts to be strong communicators, team players, and good leaders.

While technical abilities are a must, cloud projects often involve cross-functional teams. Good communication ensures everyone knows their role and stays aligned. 

During interviews, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to assess how candidates have applied these skills in the past. Look for those who can explain how they solve problems and adapt to different situations.

Key Takeaway

As cloud computing continues to reshape industries, it’s critical to find talent with both technical expertise and soft skills. Focus on key areas like cloud architecture, security, data management, DevOps, and solid communication. By making these skills a key part of your hiring strategy, you’ll build a workforce ready to lead your organization through digital transformation.

About the Author: Erika Rykun is a career and productivity copywriter who believes in the power of networking. In her free time, she enjoys reading books and playing with her cat, Cola.