By Emily Murray
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It’s no secret that the job market is struggling – 17 percent fewer employers plan to hire college students than last year, according to a recent MonsterTrak survey – but that message doesn’t seem to be sinking in with graduation seniors. Nearly 73 percent of them say the expect to get two or more job offers.
Career placement experts think otherwise. And they’re recommending that in addition to a strong resume, that job applicants polish up on their charisma. At a time when a record number of degree holding people are headed out into the workforce – and companies are slashing tens of thousands of jobs – serious job seekers must be clever and marketable.
Job coaches are stressing now more than ever the importance of letting your inner personality, character and passion shine. According to the MonsterTrak survey this is exactly what employers are looking for.
Nearly 43 percent of these same employers stated that personality stands out as the most important factor when considering college graduates for the position.
“Words are only about 7 percent of the message you send,” says Arizona State University Career Specialist Linda Nassen. The rest of an employer’s first impression comes from the way you act, the knowledge you have of the company and your personality.
They say displaying a strong work ethic and a genuine interest in the position you are applying for are part of your charisma, as well.
Eric Papp of Generation Y Consulting helps prepare students for the job market by making them as marketable as possible straight out of school.
“After you make the first impression, then you show them that you want to be there,” says Papp. “The biggest one (thing) that employers need to see is passion that you really have an interest.”
He says follow-up to an interview is key. Papp suggests contacting them once a week or once every two weeks in order to get your foot in the door.
One of the biggest character flaws that will immediately turn off a hiring manager is ego according to Papp.
“You want to make yourself look good through the endorsement of others,” says Papp. “When you are blowing your own horn that’s known as bragging,” he says, “when others are blowing your horn that’s know as the truth.”
In advising and recruiting students Papp has developed a system for highlighting what employers are really looking for.
Commitment: Applicants must appear to be committed to the company’s mission statement whether that be a commitment to excellence or service.
Action: Employers are looking for people who take action. Companies no longer want someone to fill a role.
Responsibility: Employers want responsible individuals not someone who is going to pass the blame.
Entrepreneur: Employers want people to take ownership and pride in their job. They want them to come up with new ideas to improve the current position.
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