When it comes time to expand your business, you want to find the best new team members out there. You already have a list of qualifications for the position, but what about personality traits? There’s a lot to learn about your candidate that goes beyond their resume. Pay attention to how they speak, act, and interact with you throughout the hiring process. How someone fits in with your team and company values is just as important as how they look on paper. When you take new applications, keep an eye out for these outstanding traits to look for in a new hire.
Eager to Learn
Remember that no applicant is perfect. No one is going to come into your company already knowing everything about your industry and the position they’re applying for. A willingness to learn is one of the most outstanding traits to look for in a new hire—it can even outweigh some of your listed job requirements. Keep an open mind about your candidate’s qualifications. If someone has less experience but can learn quickly, it won’t be long before they catch up and become an invaluable member of your team.
Responsible
Every business wants employees who can take on a range of responsibilities. It’s not easy to get a sense of how reliable someone is just from their application, but there are a few key indicators of accountability throughout the hiring process. Pay attention to how your applicant behaves in an interview. Someone who arrives on time, takes notes, and displays initiative by asking about the next step in the process is likely more responsible than someone who shows up late and is less proactive. An applicant’s background check can also say a lot about their sense of responsibility. This is actually one of the reasons why employers check credit. A history of paying bills on time and effectively managing finances displays financial responsibility, which is often an indicator of a generally reliable person.
Passionate About the Company
While you want a new hire who is qualified for the role, you also want someone who will enjoy working for your company. Look for candidates who are eager about the work you do and the values you hold. These people will likely be a better fit not just for your business, but also for the employees who already work for you. Additionally, new hires who are passionate about the job are more likely to become the kinds of employees who generate new ideas and grow alongside the company.
