Understanding the requirements of the New Age Employer
A degree is a stepping stone to bigger and better opportunities. However, experienced professionals will tell you that, while a degree opens up various doors, the only way to seal the deal is to develop some essential soft skills to enhance your profile.
Corporates are always on the lookout for well-rounded and informed candidates who can push their brand in the right direction. Here are some basic skills that one needs to hone before applying for that dream job.
- Communication Skills
Perhaps one of the most essential tools, communication and appropriate expression of thought can make all the difference. Employers expect prospective candidates to be articulate and express their thoughts with clarity and precision. Apart from the actual interview, mailing skills also play an important part in gauging professionality.
- Learning Aptitude
Adaptability is the key to steady growth. Even though the fundamentals of a job might not change, the processes, systems and products might be upgraded over time. An employee who can shed outdated methods and adapt to new processes effectively is more likely to be considered for bigger opportunities.
- Out of the Box Thinking
Innovation drives a business. The new ideas you bring to the table define you as a follower or a leader. Check the company website, social media feeds, and news articles about the company which will enable you to give relevant and creative answers during the interview. Hiring managers are always inclined towards candidates who can bring fresh ideas to their organization.
- Domain Knowledge
It goes without saying that domain proficiency is one of the basic qualifiers for a candidate to be considered for a job. For an extra edge, read up on the current trends in your domain and update your understanding of the subject. This shows that you’re good with research and always looking to improve yourself.
- Teamwork / Collaboration
“Teamwork makes the dream work.” Unless employees cooperate and work together in harmony, the company cannot function smoothly. Corporations are made up of various teams who work towards a common goal. Being a team player with a zest for collaborative insights is considered a strong strength by prospective employers.
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
Are you up for a challenge? Will you quit at the first sign of trouble? Interviewers tend to throw hypothetical challenges to gauge your problem solving skills. Candidates who can come up with professional solutions exude more confidence and show character which puts them in the running for the position.
- Attention to detail
Small gestures go a long way. Did you reply to the hiring manager’s mail confirming the time of the interview? Were you on time for the interview with the documents you were asked to produce? Candidates who show earnestness and a natural flair for minute details are a dream to work with. This puts employers at ease because they know you’re reliable, punctual and a stickler for rules.
- Leadership Quality
A good manager is someone who pushes for team growth and progress. Did you lead an event or fest in college? Be sure to mention this fact in your resume and highlight it in the interview especially if the event you headed was a success. Employers look for candidates who show a natural potential to be a future manager.
- Digital Knowhow
Most jobs will now list a set of computer applications or programs they expect the candidate to be aware of. Even if the use of the application does not directly affect your day to day working, it is advisable to be adept with basic skills. Apart from boosting your resume, you could also make suggestions to speed up current processes with the help of relevant computer applications.
- Professionalism / Work Ethic
A critical commandment for an employer is choosing a candidate who displays ethical judgement and a strong sense of integrity. Long term associations can be formed only if you build trust with your managers. Your reaction to difficult situations and owning up to your errors goes to show that you are sincere and just.
Now that you know the requirements, how do you gain an impetus to crack that job interview? TCS iON Common Corporate Qualifier Test (CCQT) is one such distinctive program which partners with prominent corporates to conduct assessments based on a variety of parameters. Successful candidates gain an advantage and stand the chance to be hired by the partner corporate. Get ready to win the race and land your dream job.