If you’re job-seeking for the first time, you may wonder what skills can set you apart from other candidates. Naturally, you need the technical skills that correspond to your field. Beyond that, hiring experts say there are at least six additional traits they look for in entry-level candidates.

Communication

“Communication skills are a fundamental component of any job role,” says Indeed. “Knowing how to communicate effectively with teams, managers and customers can help you be successful.”

How well you verbalize ideas and understand other points of view can directly impact how effectively you demonstrate another important skill – teamwork.

Collaboration/Teamwork

Even if you work remotely, you won’t be working in a vacuum. Your job duties will require you to interact with people both in and outside your organization. Being able to collaborate with a wide range of personalities, respectfully expressing your views and considering the thoughts of others, is an essential skill in the workplace.

Curiosity/Learning

“The half-life of today's skills is shrinking rapidly, so without the ability to continuously build and hone new skills, employees will struggle to adapt in rapidly evolving workplaces,” said Heide Abelli, a member of the Forbes Human Resources Council, noting, “continuous, agile learners have a better chance at prolonged success.”

Adaptability

If there’s one skill workers have had to learn over the past two years, it’s adaptability. The pandemic has dramatically affected the way we work – and will continue to do so. Technology also is changing quickly. Workers who can’t keep up with the changes will be at a serious disadvantage. Being comfortable with change, or at least open to it, improves your chances for growth and success.

Time Management

“Time management has always been important, but with the acceptance of remote work, it's more important than ever,” says Top Resume. “Your employers have to trust that you can manage your time and get your work done without anyone looking over your shoulder. In today's age of smartphones, social media, and binge-worthy TV, you need to prove that you can stay on task and on target.”

Digital/Social Media

Most employers assume that navigating today’s popular social media channels is second nature to young, entry-level workers.

“Whether you’re a self-professed social media expert or not, you may, simply by virtue of being a digital native, be asked to chip in on a company’s social media strategy — so come prepared with a good understanding of industry best practices,” says Glassdoor, underscoring the need to understand social analytics. “In the Age of Information, everyone from data science to marketing and even human resources is expected to have an idea of how data impacts their organization.”

You’ve worked hard to develop the skills and knowledge needed for your chosen profession. Demonstrating that you possess additional desirable traits will set you apart from other entry-level candidates – and get you started on your new career!

If you need help getting your career started, consider working with the placement experts at TPD!