Key skills employers look for
More and more, employers are shifting their focus beyond experience, qualifications, and formal skills to emphasise personality and what you, as an individual, can bring to the role. Here, we explore what this shift means and offer insights on the key personality traits our clients value most.
Positivity
Attitude is everything. Even if you have all the necessary qualifications
A negative attitude can place you at an instant disadvantage amongst other candidates. It suggests a lack of enthusiasm and can also indicate a tendency to focus on problems rather than finding solutions.
Even if you don’t intend to appear negative, the way you discuss past challenges or answer questions can signal a pessimistic mindset. Instead, choose your words carefully and highlight the positives in every situation, focus on what you learned especially when the outcome was difficult to achieve.
Confidence
Possessing the right skills and experience for a role is clearly still important but employers seek candidates who can demonstrate their capabilities, recognise their own value and deliver on their claims. If you don't believe in yourself, why would they?
During an interview, it is vital to project confidence in your abilities. Whether through providing examples of your skills, maintaining good eye contact or showcasing your abilities in roleplays, your self-assurance can make a lasting impression. Same goes for a firm handshake!
In today’s world of remote interviewing, confidence is key to standing out. Speak clearly and positively, and ensure your responses are delivered with calm assurance. Prepare your answers and practice to avoid hesitations.
Initiative
Do you wait for instructions, or do you lead by example? If you lean toward the latter, you are likely the proactive employee many employers seek. A team of quick thinkers with strong initiative is essential for a smoothly functioning workplace.
So how do you show initiative in an interview?
First, share examples from your past that demonstrate your ability to be proactive - where you have presented ideas, lead a project, identified and corrected mistakes or effectively prioritised tasks.
Second, express genuine interest in the role. Asking thoughtful questions about the work you’ll be doing and referencing the job description demonstrates both initiative and preparation, while signaling your enthusiasm for the position.
Adaptability
Change is an inherent aspect of business. Employers not only seek individuals who are open to change but also those who can demonstrate flexibility and adaptability in their roles.
This might involve assisting in different areas such as covering for a colleague in another department or adjusting priorities based on emerging projects and taking on additional responsibilities. Adaptability is a key attribute in nearly every workplace.
However, this doesn’t mean abandoning routine and familiarity. It simply means showing that you’re open to new opportunities and eager to broaden your skill set.
Resilience
Challenges are inevitable in any role. Employers seek individuals who can tackle unexpected obstacles with a positive, forward-thinking approach. This requires not only problem-solving skills but also the ability to learn and grow from adversity. Think Ralph Nader - “your best teacher is your last mistake”.
In addition to discussing past challenges you’ve overcome, it’s important to emphasise your determination and commitment to excellence. Ultimately, if you’re truly passionate about your goals, even in the face of adversity, you are more likely to persevere and achieve success.
