8 In-Demand Traits Employers Look for in SoCal Job Candidates

When you’re looking for a job, you want your skills and experience to stand out – but you also want to make it clear that you’re the kind of person employers are looking for. So just who are employers looking for, anyway?

Here are eight of the top traits employers are looking for. Find your strengths and highlight them to stand out from the crowd:

1. Many employers lament the lack of confidence many candidates show. Your resume contains accomplishments you can be proud of – so show it! A firm handshake, enthusiasm when discussing your work, and an “I can learn that” attitude go a long way.
2. Employers take their work seriously, and they want to see that you take the workplace seriously as well. In your interview aim to dress a little more professionally than the job requires. Prepare for your interview in advance so you can talk clearly and concisely about your work. And when you leave, send a thank-you message before the end of the day.
3. Why are things done the way they are? How can problems be solved creatively? What else can you learn about your field? If you’re a curious person, make sure your application and interview responses show it. Many employers love a fresh perspective.
4. Self-awareness. Employees who are self-aware keep themselves on task, pay attention to the quality of their work and ask questions when they realize they’re falling behind – and employers appreciate people who don’t need micromanaging. Demonstrate your motivation and ability to evaluate your own work and progress.
5. Desire to explore. Do you love to take risks, try new things and continually grow in your career? Put this trait front and center in your cover letter, resume and interview answers. Many employers value workers who don’t limit themselves to their stated job duties.
6. Leadership ability. Employees who are willing to accept responsibility for results show leadership potential, which is key for employers who are seeking candidates for long-term employment. Talk about the time you took the lead on a project or your volunteer work leading projects or groups in order to demonstrate your abilities in this area.
7. Can you persevere in the face of adversity? When you’re disappointed or challenged, do you seek an alternate route to your goal or do you just give up? Resilience helps you “bounce back” from setbacks, and it’s one of the qualities employers value most.
8. If you’re the kind of person who likes getting to know people for who they are, working as a team, and finding each person’s strengths, show it! An agreeability and openness to relationships with co-workers helps build strong teams, which employers value.

Looking for a job in Southern California? Marquee Staffing can help! Our recruiters specialize in connecting talented professionals to the companies that will support their career goals. Contact us today to learn more.