7 qualities to keep in mind while hiring entry-level candidates

Let’s have a look.

1. Intelligence

The term intelligence is being used in this context to denote two parameters – emotional and cognitive intelligence. Both are strong indicators of job performance. 

Irrespective of the job type, role hierarchy, or industry niche, intelligence is one parameter that cannot be overlooked while interviewing a prospective employee. Rather than what candidates already know, how fast and efficiently they can learn new things should be given more weightage.

The ability to find solutions to problems, flexibility, malleability and the agility to keep up with an ever-changing work environment are important indicators of a valuable employee. Zapilio’s assessments measuring this metric would make the recruiter’s task easy in making the final decision. 

2. Teamwork

Tasks and projects at the workplace often require employees to collaborate with both internal and external agents. The ability to work in a team is indispensable in such scenarios.

Unless you are a solo ship out in the sea, working with others is unavoidable. Sociability, being open to new ideas and opinions, and constructive criticism leading to innovative ideas are among some of the major factors that constitute a good team.

Is the candidate open to communication and taking accountability for their work while working in a team? Get these questions answered to find the right team player.

3. Reliability

The ability to consistently follow-through is an important trait. The number of years of work experience takes a back seat if employees are not reliable. 

Somewhere down the line, the candidate will be required to do their job without being spoon-fed. They might be an entry-level candidate now, but that will not remain the case a few years later.  

Their dedication levels to get the job done and deliver on time will play a part in determining how reliable they are as an employee. 

4. Integrity

How do you go about measuring integrity in a person, keeping the workplace in mind? In this context, labelling this quality as conscientiousness or work ethic will be more relatable. 

A person with strong principles will go the whole way in getting a job done. They use their sound judgment to make informed decisions. Whole and undivided attention to detail helps them figure out a way even if there are obstacles at work.

This parameter will be applicable across all verticals and horizontals when it comes to job roles. It is a general trait in a candidate that can be assessed without factoring in conditional circumstances. 

5. Receptivity to feedback

At the entry-level, a candidate will come across innumerable opportunities to learn and grow. However, the extent to which this opportunity gets utilized depends on their receptivity to feedback. It makes all the difference.

A candidate might check all the boxes – great interpersonal skills, cognitive intelligence, flawless work ethic, and high levels of motivation. But if they are not open to feedback, it will be difficult to keep up in the long run. 

Feedback can be both positive and negative. How a candidate reacts to both is equally important. It gives the recruiters an idea about the ability of the potential employee to take in constructive criticism, adapt and work on their weaknesses when pointed out.

6. Motivation or drive

The urge or the drive to get the work done is an important factor when recruiting entry-level candidates. If they are passionate and have a growth mindset, they won’t shy away from giving their 100% at work.

The drive will sustain their work ethic and fuel their desire to keep improving and contributing to both personal and company growth. Even if they do not know or are unfamiliar with some work, they do not shy away from asking for help or doing everything in their ability to get the job done.

With their solution-based approach, a motivated candidate will lead to heightened productivity, lower absenteeism, commitment to work, and overall well-being. 

7. Positivity

Both positive and negative outlooks are contagious. They can have a huge impact on the overall mood of the workplace. 

Irrespective of the challenges on the way, a positive mindset is a key to achieving work goals. Setbacks and crises are unwarranted. The candidate might have to come across them more often, depending on the nature of the job. 

The ability to organize thoughts and maintain a professional positive attitude enables the candidate to add value to the work culture and environment.