When you are in the process of trying to land a job, it can be disheartening when applications are rejected, your effort is left unrewarded, and you don’t hear back after interviews. You may be left wondering what else you can do to impress potential new employers, to stand out from the mountains of other candidates’ resumes, or simply be offered a job interview. While there is an element of luck involved with finding a job at the right company (timing often counts for a lot in sudden vacancies), there is also a lot you can do to become more desirable in the job market.
When finding a solution, it is first best to break down the problem. Employers want to find the best possible employee for their organization. They are also extremely limited on time, which means they are looking for obvious signs that a particular candidate has the necessary qualities to succeed in the role.
Your task is to demonstrate these qualities as clearly and as memorable as possible. It sounds easy, but it can prove to be anything but.
Here are some of the most sought-after qualities by a new employer.
You have achieved the necessary qualifications
It might be the most obvious place to start, but employers are looking for evidence that you have acquired the qualifications which are necessary for the vacant role.
If you don’t have these qualifications, then it may still be worth either applying anyway and hoping they are impressed by your other qualities or spending time to achieve the necessary qualifications.
Although you may not complete them in time to land the original job, it will put you in a great position for future opportunities. You can even complete many educational programs online, such as Merrimack College online degrees.
You are a team player
Another great quality which most employers will be looking for in candidates is teamwork.
Organizations thrive on collaboration, because it helps teams to pool their skills, ideas and experience in order to produce the best results in the fastest amount of time. This rewards people who are able to work well in teams, listen to the ideas of others, and keep their ego out of the equation.
Unfortunately, you will not be able to fully demonstrate your qualities as a team player until you are employed, but you can still highlight it on your resume.
To do this, include a clear and engaging example of a time when you have excelled as a team player in a previous job. Make sure the example is comparable to the type of teamwork you would be engaging in with the new job, so that your potential new employer can visualize you working in their environment.
You have a strong work ethic
Of course, every employer needs a motivated team of employees who are willing to work as hard as they can.
To display this quality, you could provide an example in a similar format to the one discussed above, or you could even volunteer to undertake unpaid work experience as proof of both your expertise and your work ethic.
