What Every Hiring Manager Looks for in Job Seekers

What Every Hiring Manager Looks for in Job Seekers

Job Search Ideas December 1, 2022

What Every Hiring Manager Looks for in Job Seekers

What Hiring Managers Really Want: Key Traits That Make You Stand Out

​Sometimes, you may wonder why your job search efforts are not producing results as fast as you expected. Though the competition may be fierce, never lose sight of the fact that there is a fulfilling job waiting for you. It’s a question of finding it.
 
In the past, I wrote about what employers want to see in a resume. Today, I am writing to reiterate that what every Hiring Manager looks for in job seekers is another important list of characteristics and qualifications. It is crucial to learn what these qualifications and characteristics are and implement your findings for significant changes in the results of your job search efforts. 

Important Characteristics Every Employer Seeks

DILIGENCE. A prospective employer needs to be sure that you are committed and capable of fulfilling the functions listed on the job description. Hiring is a costly process, and employers are expected to select the right talent as they build teams and hire new personnel.

• An employer is entitled to seek and demand diligence from employees. Regardless of whether it’s a $15 per hour job or a $150,000 per year job, you must give it your all every day you show up at work.

PROFESSIONALISM. Employers favor highly professional employees because it serves as a good indicator that they have hired the right talent. You should dress appropriately for the role, have a sense of confidence, and be sure of what you want to say before you actually do.  

• A professional demeanor can leave a lasting impression. A professional demeanor, a solid resume, substance in conversation, correct answers, appropriate interview attire, and a firm handshake may indicate that you may be a good fit. When you ooze professionalism, you give your potential employer the confidence of knowing they are making the right choice by hiring you.

 

• Most employers prefer to promote from within their ranks. If demonstrating a professional demeanor isn’t your strong suit, you will likely be overlooked for career advancement in your role within the company.

DEDICATION TO SUCCESS. The ideal employee does not focus on obstacles. The right fit often goes the extra mile to meet or exceed expectations, whether for themselves or the company. Such employees will never be deterred at the sight of challenges but will work to find a way around them.  

• The most convincing way to demonstrate to your potential employer that you are an achiever is by showing them previous testimonials, recommendations, praise (i.e., professional compliments by email for a job well done), accolades, or awards that you have received from former clients, colleagues, employers, etc.

 

• Come along with a portfolio of some of your greatest achievements. Explain the important details about how you went above and beyond the scope of your job to ensure you attained success. Also, show them how you will bring the same energy, passion, and dedication if given the opportunity.

EXPERIENCE. The importance of experience in the corporate world cannot be ignored. Sure, the prospect of hiring a recent graduate can seem exciting. However, this is usually true for more entry-level positions where experience is not the main factor. The truth is that new graduates would have to go through a learning curve, one that would likely cost the employer both time and money.  

• A seasoned professional will often get the nod ahead of more junior personnel because they bring forth their valuable experience and the ability to handle difficult situations. An experienced professional can almost instantly settle into the job and begin to make more money for the employer.

 

• If you are a recent grad, strive to show the interviewer that you are committed to showing your value and proving yourself, given the opportunity. Speak of how you can contribute and remind them of your strengths alongside your prior accomplishments. They use the information about your prior achievements to estimate your potential.

EDUCATION. A college education is almost a prerequisite in today’s tough and competitive job market. Since there are many openings for a plethora of job-seeking applicants, employers can leverage the higher supply than demand to hire overqualified applicants at a relatively lower salary.  
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• If your education does not meet the criteria of the jobs you are applying for, you may consider taking new or refresher courses. Alternatively, you can advance your education, credentials, and skill set by aiming for higher education, which can give you a significant edge in the job market.  

SOURCE: https://www.market-connections.net/blog/what-every-hiring-manager-looks-for-in-job-seekers​

About the Author

Mandy Fard is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, CMRW) and Recruiter with decades of experience in assisting job seekers, working directly with employers in multiple industries, and writing proven-effective resumes.
 
Feel free to connect with Mandy Fard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandyfard/
 
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