We have started a segment allowing potential candidates to ask questions that will be answered directly by our CEO, Darcy Swift. This month’s question is:
QUESTION: I know I have the skill set and qualifications needed when entering an interview, but I feel like they are always looking for something more. What are the things you screen for in your interviews aside from qualifications?
ANSWER: We are certainly looking for qualifications, experience and skill set, but I think what you are asking about is the competitive edge. Every hiring manager is looking for something that stands out from the rest of the potential candidates. Some hiring managers are specific in what they want, which usually has to do with the overall dynamic within their office. You have to remember they are building a team, it’s not just about one position. If you do not vibe well with the rest of the team, you will not work out regardless of your skill set. So along with hard skills, we also screen for soft skills such as adaptability, leadership, collaboration, potential for growth, and prioritization.
What will give you a competitive edge in an interview is knowing what soft skills they need to fulfill. The best way to do that is to ask questions about their company culture and dynamic. Do more listening rather than talking. Remember, an interview is not just about answering questions to get hired. You also want to make sure you will be happy in that position as well. Managers like to know that this is important to you.
If you have a question you want answered, please contact us here. We will feature one frequently asked question a month.
We have started a segment allowing potential candidates to ask questions that will be answered directly by our CEO, Darcy Swift. This month’s question is:
QUESTION: I know I have the skill set and qualifications needed when entering an interview, but I feel like they are always looking for something more. What are the things you screen for in your interviews aside from qualifications?
ANSWER: We are certainly looking for qualifications, experience and skill set, but I think what you are asking about is the competitive edge. Every hiring manager is looking for something that stands out from the rest of the potential candidates. Some hiring managers are specific in what they want, which usually has to do with the overall dynamic within their office. You have to remember they are building a team, it’s not just about one position. If you do not vibe well with the rest of the team, you will not work out regardless of your skill set. So along with hard skills, we also screen for soft skills such as adaptability, leadership, collaboration, potential for growth, and prioritization.
What will give you a competitive edge in an interview is knowing what soft skills they need to fulfill. The best way to do that is to ask questions about their company culture and dynamic. Do more listening rather than talking. Remember, an interview is not just about answering questions to get hired. You also want to make sure you will be happy in that position as well. Managers like to know that this is important to you.
If you have a question you want answered, please contact us here. We will feature one frequently asked question a month.