While educational experiences and qualifications are essential part in a job selection process, employers are looking increasingly more at the applications attributes as well. Possessing certain attributes can make you a more competitive candidate. In this article I’ve listed 30 qualities and attributes that job interviewers seek out in potential candidates.
Attributes are personal traits or qualities that people posses, which define your personality. Coupled with the skills that you gained during your professional experiences, it can make you a competitive candidate. Even a single attribute can tip the scale in your favor. Look at the list below and decide which attributes fits you best and focus on those during the interview.
Examples of personal attributes you can mention in an interview
Initiative
Initiative means that you are able to start actions and use any opportunity when it comes on your path, without others telling you to. You do not hesitate or think twice about taking action. Employers prefer to hire people who show initiative, as it means they do not have to micromanage you. People with this attribute are also good at making decisions, because they take the initiative.
Teamwork
In the industry, teamwork is a crucial attribute, as you will most likely be part of a larger project. Working in an empathetic, efficient manner can help you succeed, it can also lead to new connections and new opportunities. Teamwork is made up of several other soft skills, such as communication, responsibility, active listening, empathy, collaboration and awareness.
Analytic skills
This is a trait that allows you to interpret a subject to develop new ideas and solutions. It often involves a lot of trial and error, but with enough time and experience, you can develop this particular attribute. People with this skill can analyze a situation and come to a conclusion. It is important to have the ability to think critically to any questions or issues that you . Another important part of this is information analysis and do your own research on the topic to determine an effective solution to the problem.
Commitment
When you have passion and dedication for your work, it can lead to an higher level of quality that you bring to the project. In contrary to when you don’t like your work, it will lead to a decline in your commitment. When you do have a positive commitment, it can help you get a clear idea of what you want your career path to be. It shows your supervisors that you are committed and it will be easier to move up in your career.
Persuasion
Persuasion is convincing someone else to do an action, or to agree on your point of view. Especially in sales jobs, being able to persuade someone is beneficial when you want to sell products. It involves you to be an active listener and be good at negotiating. Furthermore, communication and reasoning can help you.
Self-confidence
When you approach interviews with confidence, you focus on answering questions effective, instead of comparing yourself to other candidates. It will improve your communication with colleagues and your boss, and it makes overcoming challenges easier.
There are plentiful websites on the internet that have detailed descriptions of each attribute. If you are unsure what it means, or what an interviewer looks for, please check these links as well.
