Editor’s note: Make It Missoula is collaborating with the Missoula Job Service to help people find local jobs so that they can move home to Missoula or continue to call Missoula home.
We regularly post both job listings and job hunting and interview advice. Be sure to watch the Make It Missoula Facebook page for new job listing announcements.
By JENNIFER LODINE-CHAFFEY
As a local job seeker, do you ever wonder what employers are looking for? Do you want to present yourself as a good bet? Then this list might be helpful. Here are some of the most important traits that employers are looking for in potential employees:
- Long Term potential—Although most people change careers at least a few times during their lives, employers are hoping for employees who stick around. Employers are impressed by applicants who show an interest in the company and express excitement about the job. Businesses spend a great deal training new employees. Before they invest time and money, they want to make sure you will remain with them.
- Team work—Most jobs require employees who work well with other people. Be a team player! Develop your interpersonal skills and learn to relate to others with kindness, interest, and sensitivity. The ability to work with people is beneficial in almost all jobs.
- Independence—Employers want individuals who can work without supervision. Employees who show initiative and are self-motivated bring new life to companies.
Demonstrate your communications skills by presenting your ideas clearly. (Photo courtesy of bpsusf via Flickr)
- Multi-Tasking—In today’s job market, the ability to perform a wide variety of tasks is often required. Employers are looking for individuals with a varied array of skills in such diverse areas as social media, software, and public speaking. By highlighting these skills in your résumé, you show employers that you are able to adapt and learn.
- Communication—Employers want individuals with skills in writing, listening, reading, and speaking. Successful communication is important in nearly every job. Presenting your ideas clearly and listening well will make you stand out to employers.
- Technical ability—In the twenty-first century, most jobs require computer literacy, especially in the areas of word processing, email, and spreadsheets. To be competitive, you need to know and understand technology.
- Dependability—Being dependable is always an important trait to develop. Employers want employees who come to work on time and take responsibility for their actions. They need to know you will be there for the company, working with integrity and diligence.
If you are currently working on your résumé or interviewing for jobs, remember these traits and highlight your abilities in these areas. It may give you a leg up on the competition. And Don’t forget about the Missoula Job Service’s Career Fair coming up on April 25, 2013 from 2:30-6:30pm at the Hilton Garden Inn.
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Looking for a job in Missoula? Be sure to check out our Missoula Job Listings. Be sure you “LIKE” the Missoula Job Service Facebook Page for daily post on job opening. You’ll also find Missoula-area information on Job Hunting Resources, Job Hunting Tips, Job Interview Tips, tips for writing Cover Letters and Resumes.
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Jennifer Lodine-Chaffey was born in Missoula and received an MA in History from the University of Montana in 2006. She currently works as an Employment Consultant at the Missoula Job Service, an organization that offers programs and services to assist employers and job seekers alike. Those looking for employment can view job openings on our job board, website, and social media outlets. Employment Consultants provide résumé reviews, conduct practice interviews, and offer skills testing.
The Job Service also provides a self-service area where job seekers have access to phones, a fax machine, a copier, and computers. Our qualified staff also offers business consulting services, including employee recruitment and retention assistance. Additionally, we provide financial support for businesses looking to train both new and current employees.
We are here to help our community!