What Do Employers Look for in Entry-Level Employees

What Do Employers Look for in Entry-Level Employees Whether you’ve just graduated from college or you’re making a career change, looking for an entry-level position in your field can be daunting. It doesn’t have to be, though. If you have a good understanding of the things that employers expect and want from entry-level employees, you’ll know how you can represent yourself to show that you’re the right person for the job. Have Potential Remember, at this point you aren’t expected to have much (if any) experience in your field. You are expected to have some education and/or some background, but these are really only indications that you are willing to learn and that you have a lot of potential for training and growth within the company. According to Darrin Kotecki, the executive vice president of GPD Group (an interdisciplinary architecture, engineering, and development firm), “We hire you for your potential, and we train you to our standards.” Communicate and Work Well With Others You could have all of the experience and expertise in the world, but if you can’t work well with others, you’re not going to get (or keep) a good job. If you don’t have a rich background in your field, show that you’re a good communicator and a great team player. Show that you are open to working with and learning from others and that you’re eager to do your part to get the job done. Be Dependable Finally, your potential employers want to know that they’re hiring someone who’ll be there and who can get the job done. You don’t have to know everything in the world about your position and how to do your job on the first day. If you can show that you are punctual, dependable, and adaptable, you’ll be displaying almost all of the characteristics that employers look for in entry-level employees. You can show a lot of these qualities through your résumé and cover letter, as well as in interviews. If you don’t have work experience in your field, include work history that shows you’re able to learn and adapt. Use former employers and/or educators who can speak to your dependability and persistence. Show that you have the potential to go far in any position by highlighting your accomplishments both in and out of work. Your energy and enthusiasm will go a long way toward making up for your lack of experience.