Every employer desires an employee with the best qualities. This is because it
makes it easier for them to manage their workers and trust them to perform
assigned tasks. From an employee's point of view, it is important to know the
characteristics employers are looking for to prepare themselves before applying
for a job or attending an interview. Every employer has their preferred traits
based on their business or job nature. While strength is essential for
physically demanding jobs, attitudes and behavior vary among individuals.
Therefore, it is necessary to discuss the characteristics of an ideal employee
according to employers. First and foremost, having an appealing personality is
a prime characteristic that employers seek in their employees. Personal grooming
such as neat dressing, tidy hair, and the use of calming fragrances are a part
of one's personality. This feature is especially important for fields that
require employees to represent the company or deal with customers, and such
traits will attract and engage with clients. Additionally, having
self-confidence and excellent manners will help employees in the company or
organization to act professionally. While some job seekers have impressive
resumes and profiles, they may lack appealing personality traits during
interviews. As the Malay proverb goes, beauty is only skin-deep. Therefore, a
pleasing personality is a coveted trait by employers as it represents the
company or organization.
Secondly, employers generally look for employees with excellent communication
skills. From our school days, we learn that communication is the key to all
opportunities. Effective communication requires experience and practice as it
depends on many factors. As employers, they undoubtedly require workers who are
honest in carrying out tasks, articulate in expressing opinions, proficient in
listening and observing what the employer desires. Additionally, employers
prefer employees who can adapt to the workplace culture and socialize with
colleagues. If the company or organization is significant and has a
long-standing culture, new employees must follow the work culture. As the Malay
proverb says, if you go into the goat's pen, you must bleat, and if you go into
the tiger's den, you must roar. To summarize, having excellent communication
skills will enable employees to perform better and benefit employers.
Thirdly, employers seek proactive employees who can solve problems and carry
out their duties. For example, new employees have a trial period and will be
placed under the supervision of senior employees. After the probationary period,
employees will work independently, and all tasks and responsibilities are their
own. Therefore, if employees are proactive by constantly learning and seeking
advice from more experienced employees and are willing to express opinions based
on theory and experience, they will undoubtedly add value to the employer's
organization. |