Five Characteristics Employers Are Looking For

By Doug Barry and Andy Sedlak, BARRYSTAFF

At BARRYSTAFF, we hire for more than a hundred different companies between Dayton and Springfield. Management at each one would probably describe an “ideal employee” differently, but some things are universal.

At BARRYSTAFF, it’s our job to find people with those universal qualities. Here’s a list of five characteristics that we know employers are looking for. 

1. Attitude. It might seem like a no-brainer but an applicant’s attitude is more or less their signature. In fact, the other four characteristics on this list could probably all be filed away in the “attitude” folder. A good attitude simply puts employers at ease. It allows for an all-important good start. A bad – or cloudy – attitude instills doubt. We know that we can open a door for a job seeker, but ultimately they’ll be the ones to either succeed or fizzle. A good attitude is the surest bet that they’ll succeed.
   
   
2. Dependability. You might be surprised to hear that one of the biggest issues employers (particularly in manufacturing) face is merely getting people to come to work. Consistency. Reliability. Steadfastness. These are the qualities that allow an employee to carve out a niche. A vital niche can open doors in the future, benefitting both the employee and the employer.
   
   
3. Flexibility. Employers like to sense that job applicants are willing to learn. In the world of manufacturing, that means they’re open to training on new machines or picking up an extra shift when the need arises. When asked about the importance of flexibility, BARRYSTAFF recruiter Dave Wornstaff said, “These folks have to make themselves an essential asset to their employer. Whatever curves are in the road, they need to find a way to remain essential.” That doesn’t happen without flexibility.
   
   
4. Honesty. If you have baggage, own it. Job seekers should know it’s important to show growth whenever possible. We all stumble. Hopefully, we mature. An honest conversation builds trust. And belief. Most of the time applicants are asked about past challenges anyway. It’s an opportunity to take the bull by the horns and be honest about those challenges — and how it underscored progress.
   
   
5. Determination. Employers don’t want to know why you want a job, they want to know why you want this job. Job seekers should never give the impression that any old job will do, or that they’re making the rounds. Even if they are, a little research is welcome. Why did you select our company? What stood out about this position? Applicants should be determined and focused. They should be envisioning the road ahead. Employers are waiting to be inspired. Make it happen.