5 Spectacular Candidate Traits

We all know that a resume is not always the most accurate representation of what a candidate actually has to offer. From high school on, we are coached on how to create an ideal version of ourselves on paper. So how do companies go about spotting the candidates who truly exemplify their company values? Here are five traits Hiring Managers are looking for from candidates during the interview process:

1. A Great Attitude – Positivity in the workplace has a huge impact on the overall work environment. It also impacts employee relationships and the team’s ability to get work done. Even outside of the workspace, a positive attitude is correlated with better physical health.
2. Self-Directed – Plenty of people will tell you that they are “self-motivated”, which is a good trait. But self-direction goes a little deeper. People who are self-directed are able to set goals that are relevant to the long term success of the project, client needs, service delivery and create a logical series of steps to accomplish those goals. Examples are typically requested of candidates during the interview process.  Candidates with a proven successful self-directed performance are placed at the top of the candidate pool for additional consideration.
3. Effective Communicator – Effective communicators are not only able to work well in a team environment, they can also convey information to their supervisors and help inspire those who report to them. Being able to communicate clearly on paper and in person makes a huge difference in overall performance.
4. Consistent – Hiring Managers need a candidate who is able to deliver on promises over and over, not just sometimes. A consistent work ethic leads to consistent quality work that you can count on. If a candidate has a spotty track record for finishing things they start, has been in too many companies/jobs within a short period of time it is bad sign.
5. Flexibility – Hiring Managers know that their company is growing and changing with time. They need employees who can do the same. Whether you add new service solution, products or technologies, or shift the focus of your company culture, flexibility and adaptability are the keys to survival in today’s market.

These are five of the most important traits that Hiring Managers are searching for in an extremely large candidate pool in today’s market. If you can deliver these traits clearly and successfully during the interview process you will have better luck in securing job offers that will continue to enhance your career.