There comes a point in every interview process when the question is no longer “can this person do the job” but instead it’s “do I want to work with them”? It’s a point where chemistry, body language and so many intangible qualities collide.
One area where you can help take the guesswork out of the process is by displaying a positive attitude.
Some people may think that they’re showing that already, they’ve applied for the role and done well in the interview, doesn’t that demonstrate a good attitude? It does of course but you are probably one of a few people to get to this stage so what is the interviewer going to use to take you over one of the others?
Attitude is an increasingly important factor, especially when the labour market is very competitive. As a recruiter it’s one of the first things we look for when we’re searching for the very best candidates to show our clients.
What do recruiters look for in a candidate?
A good recruiter has to think like a hiring manager, so once we know a potential candidate has the right skill set we’ll look to understand what the company are looking for and work with a candidate to maximise their chances of ticking all the right boxes. We look at every opportunity a candidate has to show they have what it takes; from the CV right through to post interview communications.
We try to get to know the candidate just like we get to know our clients. After all it’s in our interest to only put the right people through so we’ll never put people forward in the hope they’ll somehow click.
If a company has a more formal “business suit and tie” working environment we’re not going to push a jeans and t-shirt person into applying. We know that every candidate is different, just as no two jobs are the same and the hiring managers are all individuals as well. Getting the blend right, the mix can be tricky but it’s really, really rewarding.
That’s why there’s no single “right attitude”, but there are lots of qualities that contribute to being seen as having the right stuff. Our checklist always includes people who are full of positive energy, motivated and passionate. These qualities predominate in the most successful, smart and skilled professionals, individuals who deliver passion in what they do with a can do attitude.
What makes a good candidate a great candidate?
Demonstrating these qualities will make the difference between being the good candidate the company is looking for and being the great candidate they want to hire.
That’s why we look for people who know how to sell themselves and understand how they can bring the right elements to bear for the right audience. The best candidates will help us know if they’re right to the role and give us the best platform possible for selling them to the employer as the person they’re looking for.
So which are you? A good candidate or a great candidate?
If you’re looking for further advice on how to land the next job, get in touch with Belgium-based Talent Acquisition Consultant Cristina Gual (on the right) who put the above tips together or browse other articles on our blog.