Published on Wednesday, Dec 10, 2008
The paramount question that harasses every dejected jobseeker is, ‘What do the employers really want?’ Is it technical knowledge or is it experience? Do they really look for values and what soft skills do they prefer? Is personality and adapting to the company culture really of prime importance?
Facing the challenge of winning the desired job, it is imperative that candidates should be aware of what will impress the prospective employers.
Knowing which critical employability skills employers look for is almost half the battle won.
Here’s a list of some of the common employer requirements when selecting candidates:
Education and experience – It goes without saying that the first priority is a strong educational background and relevant work experience. You should possess the specific occupational expertise, be well qualified and experienced so that you can hit the ground running without any need for extensive training or direction. Especially in the case of new graduates, employers will surely give weightage to credentials, good grades, scholarships, awards and even type of school/college attended.
Computer literacy – Almost all jobs entail a basic level of computer usage. Therefore, you should possess a reasonable understanding of hardware components and be able to use a wide variety of software applications. Knowledge of word processing, spreadsheets, Internet and email goes without saying.
Communication skills – This includes the whole gamut of verbal and written communication as well as the vital listening skills. You should be able to speak, converse, write and listen effectively.
Teamwork – Almost no job can be carried out in seclusion; you will be required to interact and spend time with others. So, your capacity to relate to other people, work harmoniously with others and avoid conflicts will be under the scanner. Even collaboration, participation and ability to work well in a team environment will be duly judged.
Leadership – Employers always prefer candidates who display leadership potential like helping, encouraging, coaching and inspiring co-workers or team mates to even taking charge of team projects. You can win brownie points by showing that you seek leadership roles in extra-curricular activities, arrange community fundraisers or plan and lead projects.
Initiative – You should possess enthusiasm for the work and be a self-starter who can get the work done without constantly being told what to do and then reminded of the same. Employers also set high store in the ability to set high standards and then achieve them creatively.
Flexibility – Another important criteria pertains to the willingness to adjust to the company culture as well as adapt to changing conditions, work assignments and new ideas.
Result-oriented – You will be required to be result-oriented and possess organisational abilities. This indicates that you should be able to plan, organise as well as implement anything from tasks and projects to deadlines. Also, be deft at managing different tasks and setting priorities along with effective time management.
Analysis – Good judgement, unbiased reasoning and decision-making are considered essential. This is reflected when you can successfully identify the key issues to be addressed, analyse the situation, seek information from multiple perspectives and then resourcefully solve the problems.
Work ethics – No employer will be willing to compromise on an employee’s personal values like honesty, integrity, punctuality, reliability, commitment and dedication. Be especially careful as the interviewer may try to gain an inkling of your ethical principles by asking various questions and checking your genuineness in a roundabout manner.
Above all, what will stand you in good stead is a genuine love for the job, drive to work hard and ability to achieve results.
You should be an enthusiastic and energetic go-getter who will make optimal efforts to be successful in the job. Having strength of purpose, character and confidence is equally important.
Accordingly, you can build a prominent personal brand by showcasing the desirable qualities in your resume, cover letter and the subsequent interviews. The employer will hire you outright!
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