READ TIME – 5 MINUTES
When it comes to landing a new job, it’s not just about having the right qualifications. These days, employers want to know more about who you are and what you can bring to the table. It’s crucial to understand what employers look for so that you can showcase not only your experience, but also your unique personality, social skills, and positive attitude during the interview process.
Knowing what employers look for will help you ace the interview and also give you an edge in crafting your CV and cover letter. With the right preparation, you can boost your chances of securing that dream opportunity.
Transferable Skills
Having transferable skills is a real game-changer when it comes to job applications. Even if you don’t have industry-specific experience or previous work experience, highlighting your transferable skills can really make you stand out to employers.
These skills are ones that you can use across different careers, whether you picked them up from a hobby, volunteering, or previous work experience. By showcasing your transferable skills, you’re demonstrating to potential employers that you have what it takes to do the job. Here are some of the key transferable skills, that employers look for:
- Strong Communication – Communication is a highly valuable skill. It’s a skill that you’ll use in almost every job, which is why possessing exceptional communication skills can be a game-changer. With great communication skills, you’ll be able to avoid misunderstandings and communicate ideas and information clearly and concisely.
- Listening – To effectively solve any problem, it is important to actively listen and understand the perspective of the other party. This involves possessing good active listening abilities and being capable of responding and reflecting on the information presented to you whilst retaining it for future reference. For individuals seeking management positions, having exceptional listening skills is essential.
- Adaptability – In most careers, there will come a time when you need to adapt. This may involve changes in due dates, workload, or your approach to your job. Employers want to be sure that you can adapt quickly and efficiently. By demonstrating your ability to adapt, you show that you can go with the flow while maintaining a positive attitude and high efficiency levels
- Problem-Solving – Employers highly value individuals who possess the ability to not only identify problems but also develop and implement solutions. As issues are likely to arise in almost all jobs, employers seek team members who are proactive in identifying the cause and are capable of creating and implementing effective solutions.
During An Interview
If you’re hoping to land the job of your dreams, you must start by impressing potential employers with your CV and Cover Letter. Once you’ve got those looking top-notch, it’s time to focus on nailing the interview. This is your chance to shine and show them why you’re the perfect candidate. Here’s what employers look for during an interview:
Body Language
The first impression you make in an interview, whether it’s in person or online, is crucial. Your appearance and body language can say a lot about you. Dressing appropriately shows that you take the opportunity seriously, and presenting confident body language can help you look professional. Remember, you only get one chance to make a good impression, so put on your best shirt and get ready to impress! Body Language that an interviewer may consider could be:
- Making eye contact with the interviewer – 67% of recruiters feel that eye contact is crucial to making a good first impression!
- Sitting up straight instead of slouched
- Facial expressions
Be Prepared
Before attending an interview, you must conduct thorough research on the company and anticipate the questions you may be asked. The interviewers will likely ask you about the company, and demonstrating your knowledge can exhibit your enthusiasm and aspirations for the job. 47% of recruiters said they would reject a candidate who had little knowledge about the company. Additionally, preparing questions to ask the interviewer at the end can further impress them and display your interest.
Part of being prepared for an interview is arriving on time and being organised. Interviewers will assume that you will arrive promptly, and failing to do so may give the impression of being unreliable.
Speak With Confidence & Energy
Employers are looking for candidates who are enthusiastic and driven. Speaking confidently and with enthusiasm during an interview will leave a good impression. When coupled with confident body language, you can leave a positive impression on the interviewer and professionally present yourself. 39% of candidates leave a bad impression due to their overall confidence level, voice quality or lack of a smile.
Desired Employee Skills
In addition to having transferable skills, Employers desire candidates who possess these skills:
- Willingness To Learn – It’s great having a vast range of skills. However, there’s always room for improvement. You not only have to display confidence in your skillset, but you also need to show eagerness to expand your knowledge and become better at your job. A continuous learner is exactly what employers will be looking for.
- Attention To Detail – Small things make a difference throughout the application process. You need to present yourself in the best way possible, and showing attention to detail can help do so. Especially when it comes to putting your CV together something as small as a spelling mistake could cost you your application.
- Good Team Work – Having the ability to work effectively in a team is a highly sought-after skill. Collaborating with others can lead to increased efficiency and productivity, as well as personal growth and job satisfaction. The benefits of teamwork are endless, and all employers can reap the rewards of a team that works well together.
After reading this blog, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to impress potential employers. You’re now one step ahead of the competition, so don’t hesitate to show them what you’ve got!