Top 5 characteristics Recruiters are looking for
- by Maria Sandu
Of course many skills and characteristics recruiters are
looking for are job specific. But whether you are a graduate fresh out of
college or seasoned in the workplace, recruiters are also looking for generic
skills and attitude to see whether you are a good fit to the company. So make
sure you prepare and show through examples that you have these skills.
1. Drive/passion
Liking the job you are applying for is paramount and
something recruiters are always looking for. Show and prove your drive for the
role and/or the field you are applying for. Always be prepared to pitch
yourself, this shows your drive in the role you are applying for.
2. Communication
skills
People often make the mistake by thinking this skill is
related to how good they are able to talk about their background and expertise.
This is important, but as least as important is it that you listen well to
questions that are asked. Make sure you answer to the point and ask questions
if you want questions to be clarified. This shows your interest in the role and
the ability to communicate clearly. This also helps you building trust with the
recruiter every time you speak to him/her.
3. Confidence
Recruiters are looking for the best candidate for the job.
So if you don’t think you are the best candidate why should the recruiter? Show with confidence, without being arrogant
(think about building trust), why you are the right person for the job.
Confidence also shows in your answers to difficult questions. Be confident
enough to explain why some experiences went wrong and how you learnt from them.
If you don’t have a direct explanation on a question, it is better to ask for a
second to think instead of a random answer.
4. Vision
The main reason to hire graduates for many companies is that
graduates are perceived to be flexible. The organisation will train and up
skill you in the direction best suitable for the organisation. However the most
intense learning path is realised when you also know where you want to go.
Companies are often happy to accommodate you to support with training and
development, but if you don’t have a clear vision on what you want to achieve
for yourself and what value you bring to the company, recruiters can decide you
are not the right candidate as they are afraid you aren’t going to stay in the
company.
5. Business
awareness
For every job you apply you will get challenged on your
knowledge and interest for the market and business they are in. All companies
add value in different ways in their respective markets. So make sure you are
aware of what a company is doing, what their goal is and why and how they exist
and how you can add value for the company in the role you are applying for.
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