Top Ten Qualities Employers Want

A Government Publication I read regularly prints a list of the top ten qualities employers are currently looking for.  Over the 8 years or so I've been reading this, the top ten has changed somewhat in order, but remained constant with the same 10 traits.

The only "hard" skill included is computer skills.  The rest are all "soft" skills, so I've missed out computer skills, and included number 11, to give the top ten soft skills for which employers are looking.

Most people are only too willing to tell the potential employer about their qualifications and their “hard” skills (skills you can see, touch and feel: skills that are readily measurable and testable) but overlook the all important personal qualities or “soft” skills. 

Below is one list of soft skills much in demand with employers. 

1. Communicate Effectively

- to express yourself clearly
- to communicate verbally with good language and grammar
- to be a good listener
- to show empathy and understanding of others

2. Commit to the job

- including honesty, dependability and enthusiasm

3. Learn new tasks willingly

– demonstrate initiative and maintain productivity

4. Accept responsibility

– evaluate your own work, use time effectively, and have pride in the quality of your work

5. Excellent Interpersonal Skills

– work co-operatively with others, have a positive attitude, accept constructive criticism

6. Make Decisions

– organize tasks, contribute new ideas

7. Show Flexibility

– adapt to changing requirements

8. Leadership Potential

– demonstrate persistence, self motivation, try to improve performance

9. Grow in the job

– show a willingness to further skills and train

10. Ability to handle personal problems

- without letting them interfere with work