When employers are looking to hire new employees, they often look beyond just the candidate’s technical skills and experience. Employers seek to find candidates who possess certain personality traits that can contribute to a positive and productive work environment. These traits can be an indication of how well a candidate will fit into the company culture, how they will perform in the job, and how they will interact with colleagues and clients.
In this article, we will delve deeper into the top 5 personality traits that employers look for in job candidates.
Personality traits that employers look for in job candidates
- Conscientiousness : Conscientiousness is a personality trait that refers to being responsible, dependable, and organised. Employers seek candidates who can manage their tasks efficiently, meet deadlines, and take ownership of their work. Conscientious individuals are known for their attention to detail, reliability, and strong work ethic.
Conscientiousness is highly valued in the workplace as it can lead to better performance, higher productivity, and greater job satisfaction. Employers are more likely to hire candidates who demonstrate conscientiousness during the personality test, and this trait can also lead to opportunities for career advancement.
To demonstrate conscientiousness, candidates can provide examples of how they have met deadlines, taken on additional responsibilities, and organised their work to be more efficient. They can also highlight any awards or recognition they have received for their work ethic and dedication.
- Adaptability : In today’s fast-paced business environment, companies need employees who can adapt quickly to changes and learn new skills. Employers seek candidates who are adaptable and can work well under pressure. An adaptable employee is someone who can think on their feet, come up with creative solutions to problems, and can handle unexpected situations with ease.
Adaptability is highly valued in the workplace as it can lead to greater flexibility, innovation, and growth. Employers are more likely to hire candidates who can demonstrate adaptability during the interview process, and this trait can also lead to opportunities for career advancement.
To demonstrate adaptability, candidates can provide examples of how they have navigated changes in their previous jobs or how they have taken on new responsibilities outside of their job description. They can also highlight any projects or initiatives they have led that required them to be adaptable and think creatively.
- Emotional Intelligence : Emotional intelligence (EI) refers to the ability to understand and manage one’s own emotions and the emotions of others. Employers seek candidates who possess high emotional intelligence as they are better equipped to handle conflicts, build relationships, and communicate effectively with colleagues and customers.
Emotional intelligence is highly valued in the workplace as it can lead to better teamwork, greater collaboration, and improved customer service. Employers are more likely to hire candidates who can demonstrate emotional intelligence during the interview process, and this trait can also lead to opportunities for career advancement.
To demonstrate emotional intelligence, candidates can provide examples of how they have resolved conflicts or built relationships in their previous jobs. They can also highlight any training or courses they have taken to develop their emotional intelligence skills.
- Positive Attitude : A positive attitude is a crucial trait that employers look for in job candidates. Positivity can have a significant impact on workplace culture and productivity. Candidates with a positive attitude are more likely to be proactive, motivated, and engaged in their work, which can lead to increased job satisfaction and better performance.
A positive attitude is highly valued in the workplace as it can lead to better morale, improved teamwork, and a more enjoyable work environment. Employers are more likely to hire candidates who can demonstrate a positive attitude during the interview process, and this trait can also lead to opportunities for career advancement.
To demonstrate a positive attitude, candidates can provide examples of how they have remained optimistic during challenging situations or how they have encouraged their colleagues to stay positive during difficult times. They can also highlight any initiatives or activities they have led to boost team morale or create a positive work environment.
- Leadership Skills : Leadership skills are a valuable trait that employers look for in job candidates, regardless of the role they are applying for. Even if the job doesn’t involve managing a team, having leadership skills can still be an asset in terms of taking initiative, being proactive, and making important decisions.
Leadership skills are highly valued in the workplace as they can lead to greater innovation, improved performance, and better problem-solving. Employers are more likely to hire candidates who can demonstrate leadership skills during the psychometric test and interview process, and this trait can also lead to opportunities for career advancement.
To demonstrate leadership skills, candidates can provide examples of how they have led projects or initiatives, how they have taken initiative to solve problems, or how they have mentored or trained other employees. They can also highlight any leadership courses or training they have taken to develop their skills.
Conclusion
Employers seek to find candidates who possess a combination of technical skills and personality traits that can contribute to a positive and productive work environment. Conscientiousness, adaptability, emotional intelligence, a positive attitude, and leadership skills are among the top personality traits that employers look for in job candidates.
To demonstrate these traits, candidates can provide examples of their past experiences, highlight their awards or recognition, and showcase any training or courses they have taken to develop these skills. By doing so, they can increase their chances of getting hired and advance their careers in the future.
It’s worth noting that while these are the top 5 personality traits that employers typically look for, it’s important to remember that every company is different and may prioritise certain traits over others. It’s always a good idea to research the company culture and values before applying to a job and tailor your application and interview responses accordingly.
Mercer | Mettl is a leading global online assessment platform that helps organisations of all sizes assess and hire the right talent. The platform offers a range of assessments, including psychometric assessments, cognitive ability tests, and behavioural assessments, which can help organisations identify candidates with the personality traits and skills that are most relevant to the job.