• An employer is entitled to seek and demand diligence from employees. Regardless of whether it’s a $15 per hour job or a $150,000 per year, you must give it your all every day you show up at work.

PROFESSIONALISM. Employers favor highly professional employees because it serves as a good indicator that they have hired the right talent. You should dress appropriately for the role, have a sense of confidence, and be sure of what you want to say before you actually do.  

• A professional demeanor can leave a lasting impression. A professional demeanor, a solid resume, substance in conversation, correct answers, appropriate interview attire, and a firm handshake may indicate that you may be a good fit. When you ooze professionalism, you give your potential employer the confidence of knowing they are making the right choice by hiring you.

• Most employers prefer to promote from within their ranks. If demonstrating a professional demeanor isn’t your strong suit, you will be likely overlooked for career advancement in your role within the company.

DEDICATION TO SUCCESS. The ideal employee does not focus on obstacles. The right fit often goes the extra mile to meet or exceed expectations whether for themselves or for the company. Such employees will never deter at the sight of challenges but will work to find a way around it.  

• The most convincing way to demonstrate to your potential employer that you are an achiever is by showing them previous testimonials, recommendations, praise (i.e.: professional compliments by email for a job well done), accolades, or awards that you have received from former clients, colleagues, employers, etc.

• Come along with a portfolio of some of your greatest achievements. Explain the important details about how you went above and beyond the scope of your job to ensure you attained success. Also, show them how you will bring the same energy, passion, and dedication if given the opportunity.

EXPERIENCE. The importance of experience in the corporate world cannot be ignored. Sure, the prospect of hiring a recent graduate can seem exciting. However, this is usually true for more entry-level positions where experience is not the main factor. The truth is that new graduates would have to go through a learning curve, one that would likely cost the employer both time and money.  

• A seasoned professional will often get the nod ahead of more junior personnel because they bring forth their valuable experience and the ability to handle difficult situations. An experienced professional can almost instantly settle into the job and begin to make more money for the employer.

• If you are a recent grad, strive to show the interviewer that you are committed to show your value and prove yourself, given the opportunity. Speak of how you can contribute and remind them of your strengths alongside your prior accomplishments. They use the information about your prior achievements to estimate your potential.

EDUCATION. A college education is almost a prerequisite in today’s tough and competitive job market. Since there are many openings for a plethora of job-seeking applicants, employers can leverage on the higher supply than demand to hire overqualified applicants on a relatively lower salary.  
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• If your education does not meet the criteria of the jobs you are applying for, you may consider taking new or refresher courses. Alternatively, you can advance your education, credentials, and skill-set by aiming for higher education which can give you a significant edge in the job market.