Do you find yourself going to interview after interview only to never hear back or get rejected? You have TONS of experience, what could have happened? The workforce has been in a constant evolving shift over the past few years that has required everyone to adjust. Believe it or not, but there are actually a few major factors that many managers view as MORE important than your experience or skill set. Below are 3 significant factors that will help you get the second interview.

Attitude

When entering the job force, remember, attituded is everything. Job training can be taught, but attitude cannot. This is the leading force behind every good hire. If you walk into an interview with the impression that you are uninterested, disconnected or distracted it will reflect on your character and work ethic as a whole.

Hiring managers will assume this is the attitude you will bring into the job and disqualify you as a prospect. Regardless of your skill set or experience, it is important to communicate your interest in the interview by being eager to learn and open to change. Many managers will be more willing to hire an underqualified candidate with a good attitude over a highly qualified candidate with a bad attitude.

Being Respectful of Time

One of the biggest complaints I hear from hiring mangers on a weekly basis is the lack of respect candidates have for their time. As a manager, time is money. The last thing a manager wants to do is put time and effort into an interview for someone that doesn’t show up. If you schedule an interview, someone has put their day on hold to speak to you. Respect their time by showing up. If something happens, call and let someone know.

If you ghost a hiring manger for a job interview and then call back the next week to reschedule, you are likely not going to get the interview. Additionally, if you are late and do not call ahead of time to let them know, you are likely going to be walking into an interview with one strike already against you. Just as it is important for hiring managers to respect your time, if you want a second interview then it is also a great idea to return the favor.

Assertiveness

One thing that hiring managers really like to see in an interview is assertiveness. I understand that interviews can be intimidating, but if you prepare ahead of time, you will have the confidence to ask the questions, give the ideas and make the points. Managers are looking for someone that is different than the rest. Someone that will fit into their company culture and take ownership of their position.

Before your interview, research the company and the position the best you can. This will help you formulate any questions you may have. Also, have in the forefront of your mind what you believe makes you the best fit for the position. If you prepare ahead, then you will be able to confidently sell your abilities and qualifications to the hiring manager when prompted.

When you are analyzing past interviews, think over these 3 key factors to see if any of them need a little work. Aside from experience, many hiring managers are looking for a goo attitude, respect and assertiveness. If you are able to conquer these 3 factors, then you are sure to be successful.

For more topics, tips and tricks on job interviews check out our Career Advice Section.