One of my jobs as an etiquette consultant is to train job candidates for interviews, which is becoming more and more difficult in this time of personal disconnect. By this, I mean, that many people simply do not know how to talk to another face to face. Many more do not know the simplest of manners as well. Combine these behaviors and the interview process often becomes a source of comedy relief.
To keep me up to date with the interview process, I have contacts within various industries. Insiders have shared these stories. There was the job candidate who showed up in his gym clothes stating he didn’t have time to change. Many answer their cell phones and text during the interview. Moreover, most don’t make good eye contact or seem to care about anything.
Since this appears to be a prevalent problem, I’ve decided to share what some of my contacts say is the top three qualities they look for in a potential employee.
What three qualities do interviewers look for when interviewing potential retail employees?
With the bulk of his experience with multi-unit and big-box retailers, Steve Larson, a management consultant has interviewed and hired individuals for entry-level, front-line and mid-level employees since 1985. Steve states that, “Engagement, passion for service (external and internal), and drive to exceed expectations” are the top three traits he looks for in a potential employee.
He also emphasizes the need for the candidate to do his homework. Steve states that, “a candidate would benefit in reviewing situational questions that will spotlight the candidate’s ability to facilitate an engaged team, demonstrate critical thinking, and a passion for servicing others (internal and external).
What three qualities do interviewers look for when interviewing potential tech employees?
Charles Jo, @charlesjo, recruits for Power Integrations, the global leader in eco-friendly power conversion semiconductors and electronics. Charles feels that the candidate must first be, “Technically qualified for the role (e.g. education, specific degree) or equivalent work experience – however, exact technical fit may not always be required if other qualities compensate.” Next, he looks for, “Passion for role, group, and company” and the candidate’s ability to state a “Strong story of how this job fits into their long term career plans.”
Charles also states that, “During the interview, candidates who get excited about the field and industry are more interesting.” He also suggests, as Steve does, that candidates need to do their homework.
What three qualities do interviewers look for when interviewing for jobs in the Health Field?
According to Laurie Rose, vice-president of Human Resources for Sutter Shared Services, “The health care industry is undergoing its most significant change in more than 50 years, and our Sutter Health network has embarked on a journey to deliver great value to patients. To provide our patients with the highest quality and most efficient personalized care, Sutter Health looks for employees who can forge strong partnerships with patients, families and colleagues.”
Laurie agrees that applicants must “thoroughly research a position before applying.” She adds, “A person should tailor the application to the job-detailing how his or her specific experience is relevant to the role. This extra effort shows that a person is truly engaged in the job search and has a passion for the position.” Laurie suggests studying the organization’s website thoroughly, so that the applicant can converse about the “annual report, media stories and social networking sites.”
Laurie asserts, “During an interview, Sutter Health appreciates a candidate who can share specific examples of three core behaviors that are vital to our organization’s culture-compassion, collaboration and creativity. These personal traits help an employee quickly adapt to and embrace change as we work together to deliver personalized health care to patients and their families.”
In conclusion
For those who really want a job in this market, it’s best to heed the advice from these three experts. Do your homework and prove that you are the best person for the job!
More by this contributor
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First Person: How to Prepare for Your Interview
How-To Become a Valuable Employee and Wow the Boss
