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6 skills every job seeker needs

 
Published Oct. 6, 2016

Employers today are looking for savvy job candidates who possess leadership, strategic thinking, communication and creative problem-solving skills. The six "Qs" below represent what every job seeker needs to have and how to show them off when meeting potential employers:

IQ: Smarts and critical thinking skills. Companies look for people who can problem-solve at a high level. Executives want people who can strategize, recognize patterns and see the big picture. Showcase examples of how you exhibit these skills. Ask great questions — ones that demonstrate knowledge of the company and deep thoughtfulness. At the same time, it's important to realize that while "smarts" may get you into the game, they're not enough to help you win in the war for talent. There are plenty of bright or clever people who have never made it because they lack social skills.

EQ: Emotional intelligence quotient. This is your ability to read your own emotions and adjust accordingly to stay even-keeled, guide your thinking and build relationships. It is also your ability to read others' emotions — your interpersonal savvy, including listening skills. At job fairs and interviews these come into play in your ability to read a recruiter or interviewer and genuinely connect with them. Savvy candidates have already done their homework on the company and can spend time asking thoughtful questions about the interviewer and their professional background in the company. This effort impresses recruiters and helps you stand out. And stay in tune with how they are reacting to you. This will give you clues if you've been talking too long, for example, and when to wrap up and move on.

PQ: Passion quotient. All employers are looking for passion. When meeting potential employers, convey that you have that "fire in the belly" because those are the people companies want to hire. What does passion look like? Use LinkedIn to research a recruiter before meeting them. Show excitement about the firm, smile and be animated. Companies are looking for people who will go above and beyond, and who aren't just thinking of themselves when making an impact. The Gallup Corp. points to loyalty, psychological commitment (being "all in" on a firm) and discretionary behavior (volunteering to help others, staying late when needed, etc.) to measure employee engagement. Give employers examples of how you'll exhibit these traits when working for them.

CQ: Cultural quotient. You should be able to pick up on and adapt to cultural nuances in the way business is done in different countries or regions. This is important to multinational organizations and firms with offices in different regions of the United States. It is critical to be able to connect with co-workers with diverse backgrounds in any firm. In a job interview, this can come down to picking up on these differences and showing sensitivity. For example, assert yourself more with a New York recruiter or take time to make small talk with a Southern recruiter who might value that type of interaction.

CRQ: Courage quotient. A lot of leaders and CEOs who have spoken at the Smith School say they are looking for candidates who will challenge the status quo and ask the tough questions to push their organizations forward. They want employees who have the courage and conviction to speak up and back up their convictions when challenged. On the job, you will have to make tough calls — hiring, firing, etc. Bestselling author Patrick Lencioni suggests that genuine openness and humility inspire trust, loyalty and commitment. When interacting with a recruiter, show your courage by having the vulnerability, for example, to share an authentic response when asked the typical "Tell me about your greatest weakness" question.

IMQ: Improvisation quotient. This represents the ability to think outside the box, be curious, be adaptable and do more with less. In changing and uncertain times, employers want people who can think on their feet, be flexible and even innovate under times of duress, stress or ambiguity. Be ready with examples of how you have done this in previous jobs. Demonstrate intellectual curiosity and expand your horizon by conducting informational interviews or shadowing business leaders in order to learn more about jobs, company cultures and emerging trends. Recognize that research and networking can help you learn new things from a different perspective. Enroll in an improv class to sharpen your creative thinking, active listening, risk-taking and ability to flex and respond to unexpected events.