Skills That Will Get you Hired

All employers require communication skills, and a prospective employee should be able to not only carry a one-on-one conversation but also be able to write effectively and efficiently—utilizing correct grammar, spelling and punctuation. If you are applying for a sales position, you should be able to do an effective sales presentation in addition.

Another thing that will be expected of you is the ability to ask and answer questions in a professional manner, and part of this would obviously include how well you listen to questions being asked. When considering candidates for employment, some companies will routinely administer a test to ascertain how well (or poorly) you do with the written word.  There is no ‘quick fix’ for writing that is sloppy and if you happen to have a deficiency in this area you would be better off looking for a position that does not require you to draft any correspondence. (And yes, this means e-mail, too!)

Another factor that can help you get a job is how closely you fit the job description. Does your temperament mesh with others on staff?  Will you fit in with your colleagues, and be willing to work as a team player?

Employers nowadays are looking for employees that can multi-task. In other words, they must have the ability to do several things, sometimes, at the same time. The more you know, the more likely it is that you will be hired and subsequently able to increase your chances for advancement.

A willingness to learn new things is a definite plus in today's job market.  If you are a relatively recent graduate from either High School or college, and do not yet have oodles of experience to show, be sure to mention courses you have completed that will be helpful for the position for which you are applying. Customer service experience is desired in almost any job today and you will be judged by how you act around fellow employees, as well as how you treat customers. Taking  initiative is also important.

Employers are also on the lookout for leadership qualities and enthusiasm. You need to show them that you are a person they need on their team. Many supervisors, however are wary of candidate who exemplify a strong desire to lead, or manage others.  Particularly in the case of younger applicants, this hesitation is based on the feeling that they are not yet equipped with the proper tool to manage. Given a choice of what to emphasize, it is always best to opt for teamwork.