The job market is highly competitive today. If you're looking for a job, it's important to know what personal strengths employers are looking for in prospective employees. Chances are many qualified applicants have applied for the same job that you have applied for. Because of this, knowing what employers are looking for might give you an edge so you land that next job.
You probably have clear expectations of what you're hoping to find in a new job: ideally you'd like one that pays well and that you'll enjoy doing. You also want to work with co-workers who get along with each other and work well as a team. Employers also have expectations and are looking for certain qualities in employees.
Attributes for Job Seekers
A Great Attitude
A good attitude is one of the primary traits employers are looking for. When employees have positive attitudes, this attitude is reflected in the work place. Positive attitude are contagious and can turn a negative person's attitude around. Employees that have a positive attitude are fun to be around because they are very pleasant and considerate.
Sense of Commitment
According to Fox News, employers want employees who are committed to their job and to their employer. Employers don't want fly-by-night employees, they want employees who demonstrate seriousness about the position and show that they will stay on for a few years. It takes time and expense to train new employees. Employers want to get a good return on their investment.
Good Work Ethics
Employees who demonstrate good work ethics show up on time and very rarely call out sick or play hooky. They get their work done and don't leave it for someone else to do, and they are willing to help their co-workers when they need it. Being willing to lend a hand during crunch time or to cover for someone when you aren't required to are excellent qualities in a worker, and employers definitely take notice.
Elements Which Make an Employee Most Enticing
According to CNN Living, employers want their employees to have the ability to multitask, show initiative, and have the ability to think creatively. Employees who are able to multi-task are cost effect for the business. They are able to produce quality work, by successfully performing the job of two more employees, in an acceptable amount of time. Showing initiative demonstrates that you're not afraid to step up and make suggestions about changes which will help the company run more smoothly and more cost effectively. The ability to think creatively is a huge plus for an employee; creative solutions can be the difference between big delays and happy customers.
Ace That Interview: Learn What Employers Are Looking For
Remember the old saying, "First impressions are lasting impressions"? That still applies today. Make sure you put your best foot forward and that you get a good night's sleep the night before. US News reports that employers are looking to see if employees are likeable. This ensures them that the employee will be respectful of others on a daily basis. Employers want to make sure that employees can handle challenges on a job. Challenges present in many ways; if an employee is able to turn a negative challenge around and make it a positive experience, they are worth hiring.
With these bits of information in mind, you will be able to more effectively present yourself in all your employable glory. Good luck!
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About the Author
This article was provided by CJ Gordon, recent college graduate and master job interviewee. If you're a company looking for outside help to aid you in IT-related issues –a growing job market-- CJ recommends going with NCC Data.