When applying for professional employment with a great salary and benefits, the credentials, of course, must be there. Most people applying for these types of jobs will bring to the table qualifications that meet, or exceed, those credentials. Companies go into candidate searches aware of these factors as well, and while one or two candidates may stand-out in terms of education or experience, what they’re really looking for is a person with certain qualities that will not only fuel their bottom line but add to the company culture with their problem-solving spirit.

Not every employer knows exactly what those qualities are, but rather, hiring managers wait until it’s interview time to feel them. Let’s explore five qualities that speak to employers and get a candidate hired.

Open-Mindedness

While it may sound like a broad statement, open-mindedness is an essential quality that companies look for in a candidate. From navigating the realities of sexism and racism to the ever-present dynamics of social-distancing, having an open mind is vital to the maintenance, success, and growth of any company.

Open-mindedness is also a distinct quality that differs from flakiness, or being so open that your brains fall-out. It’s the kind of open-mindedness that lends itself to adaptability and outstanding social skills. Truly open-minded people are simultaneously secure in their beliefs, yet never defensive of them, or overtly judgmental of other’s beliefs.

Can-Do Spirit

True motivation comes from within, and no one can truly provide another person with a motivated, can-do spirit. This type of spirit is more than a quality, it’s a drive that helps a person succeed, even in the face of conflict, obstacles, and setbacks.

When interviewing, it’s key to bring to the table any workplace or industry conflict that you’ve successfully turned into something positive in your professional life. Anyone can demonstrate motivation when all is well, but it takes a special person to maintain a can-do spirit when the storm comes.

Team Player

Everybody wants a team player, but team players aren’t always easy for employers to spot. The nature of phone and in-person interviews does not provide the best platform for an employer to see whether a potential candidate is a team player.

Companies tend to assume that candidates with the best and most personable dispositions are also the ones who are the best team players. A candidate could have all the best credentials, and then not be chosen for employment because another candidate, for example, had better communication skills during an interview.

For people who have more introverted personalities, it’s a good idea to have specific examples of the ability to be a great team player.

Enthusiasm

From small to large companies, employers look for candidates who will be part of the company, who know about the company, and who essentially vibe with or connect with company culture, values, and visions.

The ideal candidate will not only demonstrate enthusiasm about the job itself, from role to functions, but also about working for the company. True enthusiasm is noticeable and infectious, and it can soar a candidate to first choice as fast as, or faster than, an ivy league degree.

Desire

The role of desire, of passion for what one does and will do, is perhaps the most important quality companies look for in a potential candidate. If you have passion for your work, the key is to know how to express your passion so that your potential employer really understands how and why you’re passionate.

One brief story about why you chose your career path, or what your profession means to you, can do a world of good in an interview. Bottom line, don’t be afraid to show who you are and what you’re really about.

Learn More About What Companies Really Look for in a Candidate

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