"5 Star" Candidates

People often ask me what I think are the qualities of a great candidate or what I refer to as a "5 Star" candidate.

Good skill sets can vary from candidate to candidate depending on the desired function of the position, but there are a few qualities that cross over regardless of the area of focus.

1.

Good candidates usually possess enthusiasm. They are excited about the business and their company.

They often think about the business in a positive manner when they are not at work.

They don't blab to people about their work but they are more than happy to speak about it when they are asked, and they are usually smiling when they speak about it.

2.

They treat the company like it is their own.

They respect expense accounts, they take initiatives to protect company information and are conscious of company image, public perception and the relationship with the customer.

3.

Great candidates are self-motivated.

They strive to be successful and happy.

They are able to self-strategize and are able to coach and motivate themselves to achieve their happiness as well as business success.

4.

Good candidates are very knowledgeable of what is happening at the grass roots level with both their company as well as with their customers.

They speak to multiple stakeholders in all areas and are able to address areas of concern before they fester into problems.

5.

Good candidates usually have very strong communication skills.

They are transparent in nature and usually have a direct but polished style.

They encourage dialogue between team members and encourage the creation of ideas from team members.

6.

Good candidates tend to have high standards while also wanting to minimize roadblocks for both their team members as well as themselves.

They are adverse to office politics and have little patience for corporate drama.

7.

Great candidates are looking to grow themselves as well as encourage growth in others.

8.

Great candidates also reenergize their bosses.

They often convince their boss that the team is stronger and more capable than expected, which can allow a boss to feel more confident in their team as well as their ability to complete their mandate.

The candidates self-motivated nature also encourages their boss to stretch themselves as well.

Farewell,

Mike