CAREERTIPS: 14 green flags employers look for in Hardhat Professionals

Throughout the interviewing process your goal as a candidate is to use your work experience and accomplishments to show that you have the qualifications that employers seek. Employers say while hard skills (such as technical training and education) are important, they also seek soft skills or interpersonal skills that directly influence what kind of employee you will be. Here is a list of soft skills employers seek from Construction and Built Environment Professionals.

1. Communication skills

As employers we understand the value of effective communication and we actively look for this skill in potential employees. It’s important to show your competence in this area verbally, physically and through written communication. When corresponding via email, double-check the message before sending it to ensure that you are being clear and concise. Another key component to good communication is the ability to actively listen and provide thoughtful feedback, so be sure to stay engaged.

2. Honesty

Honesty is a key quality that we want in our employees. Sometimes you might be tempted to exaggerate your qualifications to secure a job, but this is inadvisable. Though it may help you progress through the hiring process, if we discover your dishonesty you will never recover our trust.

Honesty is also an important characteristic to have beyond the interviewing process. When you admit mistakes and learn from them, you become an asset to any company.

3. Loyalty

Honesty and loyalty are two traits that can’t be taught, which is why they are key attributes that we look for. Prove yourself as trustworthy and committed to the success of the company, and you will be invaluable.

4. Dependability

The ability to consistently follow through is an important work trait that we seek, and one that you can prove you have throughout the interviewing process. Show a commitment to following deadlines by completing tasks as they’re assigned.

5.Teamwork

Though not every job requires collaboration, the ability to work effectively and harmoniously in a group is a strength that we want our employees to have. In fact, we will likely ask you how you function in a team during the interview process, so come prepared with an anecdote that highlights your ability to compromise and collaborate.

6. Flexibility

The ability to adapt is an important quality that we want. Prove to us you can tackle tasks and changes as they come. You can also show this skill by addressing improvements that need to be made and developing systems or solutions to the issues.

7. Self-reliance

Being proactive is an important characteristic that we look for and one that is easy to show. In the interviewing process, ask specific questions about the duties you’ll be performing in the job. This will show that you’ve given thoughtful consideration to the position. You can also prove you’re self-motivated by recognizing needs and taking initiative on projects.

8. Eagerness to learn

We value employees that actively seek to better themselves, so it’s important to communicate that you enjoy learning new things. Love for education demonstrates that you are dedicated and humble, recognizing that there is always more for you to learn. During the interviewing process, be sure to mention if you are an avid reader or continuing your education.

9. Confidence

Being self-assured is a key characteristic that we look for. We seek people to join our team that are confident in their abilities and that know what they want. Confident employees are friendly, engaging and have a clear (and honest) idea of what makes them a valuable asset.

A key component of confidence is having clear goals. Communicating your dreams to us will prove that you are striving for something bigger, and not just looking for a job to pay your bills.

10. Work ethic

Another top quality that we look for is a good work ethic. Employees that work hard are always on time and on target. Take pride in your work and others will take notice.

11. Determination

Persistence is an important work trait, and we often ask a question to gauge the determination of applicants in an interview. Be equipped with a story that shows how you overcame a challenge and highlight the tenacity that it took for you to accomplish your goal.

12. Problem-solving skills

We are looking for more than brainless drones to do their bidding. We want people on our team that can pinpoint a need and address it, so be sure to recount instances when you recognized an issue and developed an effective solution.

ALSO READ: 11 green flags Hardhat Professionals use to identify potential employers 

13. Positivity

A work environment can be dramatically altered by one person’s attitude, which is why positivity is a quality that employers look for. Positive people create healthy work environments and are often valuable members of a team. A positive attitude usually signifies resilience, and an ability to overcome setbacks.

14. Ambition

Ambition is a key trait that we look for because of what it communicates about you. It means that you have something you are working towards, and are on a path of betterment for both yourself and your circumstances. Don’t be afraid to share your big dream with us. We will likely find value in it, and it will positively impact your worth.

As employers we consider these skills key employability skills and are essential to being an effective employee.

CAREERTIPS are compiled with the input from both industry employers and Professionals

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