What Employers Look for in Potential Hires

What Employers Look for in Potential Hires

If you've made it to the interview stage of a job application, I always believe, then you are half way there.  Your potential future employer has seen something in your CV that they like and as special from their overall pool of candidates. The other half or 50% is selling yourself and convincing them that you are the right person for the job. 

Always keep in mind that in reality there is 6 things that an Employer is looking for in a potential hire (separate to hard skills and experience)

1.  Commitment

You say you want the job but will you stick at it. If an Employer invests time, money and resources in you - they want to make sure that you're in it for the long haul (not just 6 months to tide you over until something better comes along!)

2.  Common Sense

They are looking for someone with some basic common sense and initiative.  Who doesn't necessarily need hand holding (although every job has a settling in period - a time to get to grasp with the work).  Employers are looking for someone with a bit of old fashioned "cop-on"!

3.  Ability to Ask Intelligent Questions

I always use this example - so your Line Manager etc has explained a VAT return to you.  You go away to attempt one on your own, but have forgotten how to begin the task.  Rather than waiting to be inspired, your Line Manager would rather you ask to be shown again rather than wasting time twiddling your thumbs.  Remember it's all about asking intelligent questions!

4.  Enthusiasm

Enthusiasm for the role, company and industry.  The Interviewer is looking for someone who has a genuine interest and "passion" for the role, company and industry type.  In my early recruitment days, one of my accountancy candidates was unfortunately turned down for a role.  Reason given: "We know she could do the job, we know that she would do the job, BUT we weren't sure if she really wanted to do the job"  Don't make the same mistake!

 

5.  Personality

Remember that team and company fit is very important to an Employer.  They are notlooking for the extreme ends of the spectrum - either the office clown or the office "weirdo".  What they are looking for is someone professional, personable, who gets on with others, and will represent their company in a positive way! 

6.  An Achiever

Employers look for people who have set out goals whether it be work, educational or personal related and have achieved them.  This can be a project that was delivered on time and on budget.  Achieving a 1st in your university dissertation. Completing the marathon within a specified time.  Employers want "Achievers" not just "Do-ers"