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How Can You Differentiate Yourself From Other Candidates?

December 17, 2018

Hiring managers and employers are looking at a variety of factors when they review resumes. Everything from education to work history, plus quite a bit in between, including soft skills.

Soft skills are quality that help make an employee well-rounded. You can convey these skills throughout the hiring process whether it be in the resume, cover letter or something you discuss in an interview. Basically, you want to convey you offer more to the position than just the technical skills, you’re more than just your resume.

Based on the job you’re applying to, you will find different soft skills may be more relevant to highlight. However, there are a few that are universal and can help you stand out from other candidates.

5 Soft Skills That Can Differentiate You From Other Candidates

  • Leadership

This soft skill is actually easy to include on a resume. Some people even have a designated “Leadership” section. Listing different roles and examples of your leadership will definitely grab the attention of the hiring manager.

A leader is good at collaboration, listening to others and admits mistakes to become better. They are honest and accountable, and employers are always looking for a leader in any position because these qualities are always helpful.

  • Respect

Being polite with basic manners and using a respectful tone of voice throughout the interview are great ways to show you possess this sought-after soft skill.

  • Enthusiasm

Every company wants their new hire to want to work there, so show it! You can demonstrate your enthusiasm, naturally, in a lot of different ways.

The easiest way is to tell your interviewer you are excited for the chance to work at the company. You can also show your enthusiasm by preparing for the interview with questions about the company and position. Another time to convey your interest and excitement is in the follow-up thank-you note for the interview. These simple ways of showing enthusiasm will definitely make you stand out, in a good way, to the interviewer and hiring managers.

  • Confidence

An employee that is confident in their ability to do their work well, or learn new skills quickly, is very attractive to a company. Your confidence is contagious, and therefore, the company will be confident in your ability to fill the position well. The only word of caution is to be sure your confidence in yourself doesn’t come across as arrogance.

  • Work Ethic

This soft skill is obviously important and thankfully, it can be highlighted throughout the hiring process. When talking about past jobs, use bullet points to demonstrate your work ethic, backed up by statistics or hard numbers. In the interview, you can discuss how your work ethic allowed you to succeed and taught you lessons for your future employment as well.

Worth ethic is the self-created drive and focus to get a job done well. Any employer is thrilled to talk more to a candidate who can demonstrate work ethic in the hiring process.

Make Your Resume Stand Out

For expert review and guidance on making your resume stand out, contact MS-IL Staffing & Packaging.

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