How to Answer: If you were hiring for this job, what qualities would you look for in a candidate?
24. If you were hiring for this job, what qualities would you look for in a candidate?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to see the level of insight you have when it comes to the company's needs for this role. It is a safe bet to pull from any characteristics mentioned in the job posting or job description. Make sure to keep company culture in mind when you answer, and be prepared to display to the interviewer how you match these qualities.
Some of the top qualities that an interviewer may be seeking include:
- Accountable
- Trustworthy
- Loyal
- Self-motivated
- Resilience
- Problem-solver
- Analytical
- Creative
- Social media & tech savvy
- Strong business sense
- Willpower
Answer Example
"If I were hiring I would choose someone highly analytical but still able to see the big picture, and think in a team-first mentality. I am highly team oriented and also possess the ability to create short, and long-term plans using data analysis and market trends."
Admin
"If I were in charge of choosing the candidate for this job, I would look for someone with a naturally cheerful and positive disposition. I would also look for someone, like myself, who is well organized. There are a lot of moving parts in this position so those being a fast learner would be especially important."
Manager
"I believe that a manager should be organized but also have personal qualities that would make other people desire to be led by them. I naturally take on a leadership role in my school, organized sports, and even with my siblings. Also, a manager should be an excellent active listener so I would look for that quality as well."
Marketing
"For this particular position, I would look for someone highly creative that knows how to collaborate with other people who are more experienced. I am new to my career, so it's important that I observe and learn just as often as I give ideas and suggestions. With that comes the need for confidence. I would also seek out someone highly confident."
Retail
"I would look for someone who fits in well with the team, the company brand, and the overall workplace culture. You can teach many things, but you cannot teach someone to have a character set that will compliment your company's goals."
Sales
"A sales professional should be highly engaged, energetic, and internally competitive. I work hard to possess these qualities, and I know these are important to your company as well."
Teacher
"If I were in charge of hiring for this position, I would look for someone with a high GPA, a history of volunteering and community involvement. I would also seek out a person who identifies as being compassionate, caring, and patient."