4 skills HR managers look for in YOU

Always wondered what hiring managers wished you knew?

Surbhi Shweta, head, human resource, Mirae Asset Global Investments (I) Pvt. Ltd., spells out the four qualities HR managers always looks for in prospective candidates.

While each job that you apply for may require you to have different qualifications, and skill sets, there are some common attributes that every employer will look for in applicants. These qualities are judged best during a one-to-one conversation with the candidate during the interview.

The first impression that you create in terms of your personality and level of confidence can make all the difference at times.  Power dressing thus helps to make the right start.

Most of the organisations look at the educational background as qualifiers. But this alone may not be enough. Experience is a quality that many companies will look for in candidates. Rich experience coupled with strong references will help you get there easy.

Team play acts as another essential. Interview panelists look at aspirants who are team players. It is important to understand the interview process from a company perspective. If you don't work well with a team, you will need to learn how. Not being a team player can harm the values of an organisation. It is crucial that you understand the importance of teamwork.

1. Discipline and punctuality

These are qualities that will be sought after and one needs to express that during an interview by being on time. No matter what position a company is hiring for, they will have a tardiness policy, and showing up late to an interview will convey a message that you may not be punctual if you are hired.

If there is a need for hiring a candidate at a management position, the leadership ability of the candidate is scrutinised. The art of leading from the front and to lead the way for the team you are going to handle at a manager or supervisory position becomes a critical parameter to judge.   

2. Decision making ability

Most large companies don't like to deal with applicants that need to be micromanaged. Depending on the position you are applying for, you may need to make a lot of decisions on your own, and you may not be under the direct supervision of a manager.

A focused and a success-oriented candidate will always be preferred over a candidate with unclear goals.  You should know what you want from the job and how you will achieve it.

3. Honesty

This is another quality that companies will look for in applicants. This is especially true for jobs in the banking or financial industries, as ethics, integrity are crucial aspects of an employee's behaviour in these industries.

Confidentiality of data is extremely important for such companies and hence employers pay emphasis on selecting a candidate who they can trust with sensitive customer information.

4. Commitment and dedication

Among all the above traits pursued by employers, commitment and dedication seems to be the most desirable quality in any candidate. To prove other qualities stated above you need to be committed to the organisation.

A candidate should come across as a person who would make honest attempts to have his or her efforts count and thereby add to the organisation's pursuit of its business goals.