If you think having a great resume and a prestigious qualification makes you hirable, think again. Many employers look at qualities as well as qualifications.
If you want a long career in your field of choice, you need to be the type of candidate people want on their team. So, what kind of candidate is that?
Have you ever wanted to tap into the thoughts of a hiring manager to learn why some people get hired and others don’t? You might be surprised by what you discover. If you think a great resume and prestigious qualifications are enough, think again.
We’ve asked David Novak, former CEO of Yum! Brands, what he looks for when he hires someone, and this is what he told us:
Most leaders will start by verifying that a potential candidate is smart and intelligent. The applying person must have the skills for the job, otherwise it simply won’t work out. Competence is the first qualifier.
The employer will then dig deeper to make sure the candidate is a good fit. During an interview, the hiring manager typically looks for two things:
1. Why will this person be a great addition to our team?
2. Does this person have the ability to learn?
David believes the difference between a good performer and a great performer comes down to a desire to learn. Are you the kind of person who wants to learn from others? Do you seek out best practices in your field? Hiring managers look for the candidates who are curious because they strive to learn throughout their career and, as a result, raise the game for other members in on their team. When interviewing, be prepared to share how you are passionate about learning. This just might set you apart from other candidates.
After interviewing applicants, David determines who to hire by asking himself, “Would I want my daughter to work for this person?” If the answer was no, then that person wouldn’t get the job. However, if David saw someone with a special leadership quality, someone who would invest in his daughter and help her become the best she could be, he would hire that person.
Hirability is the one quality that will help you get through the gates and onto a path towards a successful career. Being a learner and a leader are equally important, and we are committed to helping you develop in those areas. Check out the David Novak Leadership Podcasts and learn from other great leaders at David Novak Leadership.
One reply on “Are You Hirable?”
Interesting you say “would I want my daughter to work for that person”. I have 2 daughters in college and both have worked for me. I definitely remind myself to treat my other employees at least as fair as I do my own kids. My kids have also taught me the importance of not crushing someone’s spirit—we are fragile creatures it turns out.
…every day presents a learning & teaching opportunity. #David Novak Leadership