Q: What are employers looking for in perspective employees?
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Clearly they want someone who can do the job, i.e. has certain skills and competencies. But that, actually, is of secondary importance. If potential employers like you because you have some or all of the qualities listed below, they will hire you even if you don't have all the skills they are looking for as they know they can teach you those skills. Employers want people who can:
- Work hard
- Interact positively with people from other ethnic or socio-economic backgrounds
- Solve problems
- Work as a team
- Use the latest technology
- Communicate clearly through the written word
- Communicate clearly through the spoken word
- Think both critically and creatively
- Make ethical decisions
- Be reliable and on time
How will a potential employer know you have these qualities? It is up to you to communicate them through a cover letter, resume, and interview. This is also where letters of recommendation from your professors can be of enormous help. Remember that the next time you feel like going to class late or blowing off an assignment.
