If you're job hunting without a strategy, you're probably missing opportunities to sell yourself to recruiters and hiring managers. Employers want multifaceted job candidates who have strong critical thinking, problem-solving and communication skills to back up their technical qualifications. Instead of wasting your energy on an unfocused job search, master the six "Qs" to boost your credibility every time you interact with recruiters.
1. Intelligence Quotient
No company wants to hire people who need guidance on every decision. Regardless of career level, employers expect job candidates to efficiently gather information, analyze problems and find solutions. Show hiring managers your critical thinking skills by asking questions that confirm your understanding of the company's goals and obstacles. Demonstrating your thought process makes it easier for employers to trust your judgement and ability to stay focused under pressure.
2. Curiosity Quotient
Lack of curiosity and enthusiasm is a sign that you aren't passionate about the job you're pursuing. Employers look for self-motivated job candidates who are eager to learn and go beyond the basic requirements of the position. In online profiles and interviews, highlight instances when you improved operations or devised creative solutions because you took the initiative to investigate a problem or inefficient process.
3. Creativity Quotient
Companies evolve, and hiring managers value job candidates who can adapt to change and continue to drive innovation despite venturing into new territory. Stay alert to behavioral questions that ask you to describe a time when you took risks, came up with a great idea or overcame unexpected setbacks. Hiring managers are hunting for signs of resourcefulness and inventiveness, so emphasize past experiences when your out-of-the-box thinking produced stellar results.
4. Emotional Intelligence Quotient
A hostile team is a constant drain on productivity, making it essential for companies to recruit job candidates who can navigate tense situations with finesse. Emotional intelligence strengthens your ability to read others and choose the best approach when interacting with them. Recruiters take notice of top-notch communication skills because they see leadership potential in employees who listen well, show sensitivity and motivate others. Aim to connect and build relationships with recruiters by mirroring their demeanor, showing genuine interest and referencing previous conversations.
5. Confidence Quotient
The best leaders have the conviction and self-awareness to speak up when they disagree and admit when they're wrong. Companies that want to move forward seek the same confidence in job candidates, making them less likely to hire you if you back down from tough questions or fail to promote your accomplishments. Instead of being the embodiment of perfection, be authentic when asked about personal weaknesses or past mistakes while making it clear that you never stop trying to exceed expectations.
6. Cultural Quotient
Workplaces are miniature societies with distinct rules and atmospheres that influence how co-workers relate to one another. Employees should be able to connect with internal colleagues and represent the company well in front of clients, investors and partners from around the world. Show your diplomatic qualities at job fairs or company events by doing your research and adapting your communication style to suit your audience.
Keep in mind that every employer weighs these key skills differently. Make an effort to learn about companies you're interested in, so you can highlight qualities that distinguish you as a top job candidate.
Photo courtesy of Ambro at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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