Not only has the pandemic affected the jobs across the globe, but it has also forced the recruiters to change the way hiring takes place. Almost all employers have moved from offline to online hiring. There’s more competition than ever before, recruiters can now hire people from anywhere in the world as remote work takes over. Hiring managers are looking for skills and qualities in candidates that fit best for the upgraded work scenario.
Here I am listing 7 skills that will set you apart from the crowd:
1. Adaptability to Change: From working in offices for 9 hours to flexible work hours from home, from commuting long hours in traffic to endless online meetings, the year 2020 brought a sea of changes in the way we were working. Employers are looking for candidates that show how quickly and effortlessly they can adapt to change.
2. Ability to Connect and Communicate Effectively: Verbal, email and, telephonic communication is a must-have skill for any job. But your ability to connect and bond with people online will be a game-changer. Your body language – your positioning in front of the camera, your attention while others speak in online meetings, your presence, etc. are all ways of displaying professionalism.
3. Internal Motivation: Leaders hate it when they have to keep pushing and reminding employees to perform. This is even more difficult these days due to the lack of physical presence. It becomes important for you to showcase yourself as a self-motivated person. Your answers should portray that you won’t need constant nagging of what and how you need to do your job, thus you are an asset to the company.
4. Exceptional Team-player: Ensure you imbibe and showcase great team spirit during your interviews. Managing teams remotely has become a nightmare for many leaders and hence you are a sure-select if you show them how you have/can contribute to team success, eventually leading to the company’s success.
5. Reliability and Trustworthiness: Leaders want to have employees in their teams who will get the job done. No excuses and no uncertainty. They want employees that they can rely upon and trust in unexpected and uncalled-for situations. If you display qualities that show you can take charge when required to finish a task/project, you will earn brownie points in your interview.
6. Tech-savvy: It is best to be hands-on with technology. Obviously, you will not have the IT team coming to your home to help you with any technical issue. Know how to use and troubleshoot some basic connectivity apps (zoom, teams, meets), webcams, microphones, and the likes. Learn these beforehand.
7. Lifelong Learner: The chances of getting shortlisted are very high for someone who can work on multiple tasks and have knowledge spanning across verticals. These unpredictable times demand candidates that can learn new skills and apply them for the company’s success. Show them you believe in learning-unlearning and relearning.
Always show up prepared for an interview. Do thorough research on the company and its culture, know your strengths and how they align with the job description and be confident that you can add value.
I wish you the best in landing that dream job!
