Although we are in a recession; the war for talent still exists. Now more than ever, employers are looking even more closely at people who can “contribute to the bottom line of organizations.” Simply put, employers look for candidates who have the qualifications and skills necessary to be successful in the position they are trying to fill. This may seem like an obvious statement; But, many college graduates don’t take this basic message seriously. Completion of a degree does not guarantee a job. Employers want to know what you will do for them.
The 2008 survey by collegegrad.com indicated that 44% of responding employers ranked a graduate major as their top priority, interview skills ranked second, an internship, and graduate experience ranked third. place, and 10% of the respondents mentioned the university from which the student graduated. ranked fourth as a priority in their hiring consideration process. According to the 2009 National Association of Colleges and Businesses Employment Survey, the top 5 personal qualities/skills employers look for are: communication skills (verbal and written), a strong work ethic, teamwork skills ( works well with others), initiative and analytical skills in that order.
The above is helpful information to keep in mind when preparing to look for a job; however, to compete more effectively, candidates need to know more and do more with information so they can differentiate themselves from others in today’s competitive job market. And… in addition to the above, there are other important considerations that organizations look for when considering candidates for a position.
When you get the relevant, obvious, and appropriate skill set, and the ability to interview and possibly complete a well-targeted internship, the candidate’s “attitude” becomes one of the primary factors in the hiring process. In fact, most employers in good organizations have adopted the mantra “hiring attitude, skills training.” Over time, they’ve realized that smart people can learn new skills, but people with a bad attitude often can’t change, and the organization doesn’t want to invest the time, money, and effort to change people’s attitudes either. a person. The message about a great attitude doesn’t come across strongly to many graduates. One of the main keys to employment is a great, genuine and positive attitude!
Second, your demonstrated work ethic is critical to your potential employer. What will you do in your new job that meets the employer’s needs? What have you learned in college, internships, part-time jobs, volunteer work, or life experiences that will allow you to apply and take advantage of opportunities at your organization?
Most college graduates are “intelligent theorists.” They know what the book says and have proven their ability to pass the syllabus requirements, the big question the employer is concerned with is “can you apply what you have learned in the real world?”. Can you write a report that communicates clearly and has impact? Can you communicate effectively within a team environment to help bring a project to a successful conclusion? Do you have a “do it profitably” attitude? Being able to demonstrate how you will apply the theory you have learned in school to real situations in the workplace will give you an edge over the competition.
Third, can you demonstrate leadership skills in the workplace? Leadership shows the willingness to take an active interest in something or someone to move to the next level. As a college graduate, in most cases you will be expected to quickly assume responsibility for a leadership role in your career. This can be in the form of project management or a team leadership role. If you are a leader versus a follower and can provide examples of leadership, employers are more likely to hire you. Your leadership skills are also a good indication to the hiring organization that you are a self-starter and take-charge person.
The overriding message expressed by employers in all segments of for-profit and non-profit organizations is this… Employers are looking for people who can get the job done. Employers want people who have the academic, technical, and interpersonal skills and competencies necessary for the position for which they are being considered. One final quality that hiring employers like to see is the applicant’s knowledge of their organization. Research the company as thoroughly as possible so that your knowledge of their operation shows in your resume, cover letter, and interview. The extent of your “company knowledge” will allow you to ask precise and clear questions and demonstrate your sincere interest in your organization. If you take a serious interest in them, you might get the same back.