Regardless of how confident you feel about your preparations for a job interview, there are certain things you should keep in mind when it comes to what hiring managers are looking for in a candidate.
There are certain traits and skills that hiring managers are looking for which go beyond experience. It’s important that you think of these things and how you can mold yourself into that desirable candidate that the hiring manager is searching for.
Professionalism
It’s no surprise that hiring managers are looking for professionalism in a candidate. During an interview, most managers are looking for traits that show a candidate takes themselves and their work seriously.
One way to demonstrate that you are a professional is through your attire. It is always best to opt for conservative attire for your interview. Make sure that your clothes are wrinkle and odor free. Showing up with wrinkled up clothes that smell musty will give the impression that you do not care about your appearance, which can cause the hiring manager to question your overall work habits. Will you turn in sloppy work? Will you attend client meetings dressed in disarray?
While it’s important to dress neatly, it’s also just as important to be “toned-down”. Wear neutral colors and professional clothing. This is not the time to bring out that skin-tight red dress or flashy purple suit. Remember, you are interviewing for a professional job, not going out for a night on the town.
Honest and Clear Communication
When the manager asks questions, be sure to answer concisely and honestly. If any of your responses seem aloof or vague, the hiring manager will question the truth in those answers. Likewise, make sure your resume honestly and clearly reflects your work history and experience. The hiring manager will be interested in hearing clear examples and validation of your skills and experience as portrayed on your resume. Any discrepancies will be sure to end the interview process for you immediately, leaving the manager questioning your honesty.
Also, pay attention to how you respond to questions. If you are a person who tends to ramble, practice interview Q&A sessions with a friend and focus on keeping your responses as concise and specific as possible.
Quick Follow up
Most hiring managers are looking for someone with quick follow up skills. This is a must-have skill in any line of business. No one wants a person on their team who will let things sit for days, with no sense of urgency to complete projects or tasks.
Show the hiring manager that you have the strong follow up skills that are desired by following up after each interview to express interest and check for next steps. Also, be sure to complete any paperwork or assessments promptly throughout the interview process. You would be surprised at how many hiring managers are assessing your prompt follow through on these items. Waiting for days before completing paperwork, assessments, or sending in references can be the make it or break it for you during the process.
In closing, there are many different ways you can mold yourself into a desirable candidate. While you should focus on your experience, and education, you should also pay attention to your professionalism, communication, and follow up. By ensuring that you are paying attention to each of these items, you will have a better chance at becoming that desirable candidate that the hiring manager is searching for.
What are some traits that you focus on to in order to be a desirable candidate? Please share your comments below.
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