What Employers Want
What's the first thing an employer notices about a job candidate? Nearly half say it's the candidate's " general demeanor"--overall appearance and attitude--that first catches their eye. Another third say it's candidate's overall appearance--dress and grooming. And about one in 10 says they're impressed by a candidate's ability to make eye contact.
That's your first hurdle, and some ways, it's the easiest. Next, employers use a more reasoned approach to evaluate job candidates. Here, good communicators win every time. Communication skills top the list of characteristics employers look for in candidates, as they have for the past several years.
As the charts below indicate, employers believe that candidates best suited to today's workplace are those who have the skills to excel in a team-oriented environment. This is "the information age" after all, and it's hardly surprising that the most sought-after candidates not only offer knowledge (evidenced, arguably, through academic achievement and GPA), but also the ability to share that knowledge (communication skills) effectively (motivation/initiative) and tactfully (interpersonal skills) to ensure the success of the group (leadership and teamwork skills).
Top Personal Qualities Employers Seek
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1. Communication Skills
2. Honesty/Integrity
3. Teamwork Skills
4. Strong Work Ethic
5. Analytical Skills
6. Flexibility/Adaptability
7. Interpersonal Skills
8. Motivation/Initiative
9. Computer Skills
10. Detail-oriented
11. Organizational Skills
12. Leadership Skills
13. Self-confidence
Source: Job Outlook 2006, National Association of Colleges and Employers
