What Recruiters Look for in Candidates
Employment counselors from the Westchester-Putnam Career Center Network share their best tips.
By Sherry Bruck, Westchester-Putnam Career Center Operator
Recruiters look for a mix of hard skills, soft skills, and cultural fit when evaluating new hires. We talked to three employment counselors with the Westchester-Putnam Career Center Network (WPCCN) to get the latest tips and best practices when searching for a job. Here are the key things recruiters typically focus on:
1. Relevant Skills & Experience: Does the candidate have the technical or industry-specific skills needed for the role? Have they demonstrated success in similar roles? Do they have transferable skills that can be applied to this position?
“It may sound basic, but the first thing I do is review a client’s resume carefully, because the resume precedes an interview and that’s all a recruiter has when deciding whether to go forward with a candidate,” says WPCCN Employment Counselor Tracey Anderson. “It must be an accurate depiction of who you are, your relevant skills, and what you’ve done. Do not put anything on your resume that you are not able to expand on during an interview.”
WPCCN Program Administrator Employment & Training Leslie Meggett elaborates, “Your resume should align with the job description and demonstrate the skills the employer is asking for. If the employer is looking for someone with Excel experience, list the specific Excel skills you have. If you have transferrable skills from another software program, explain the similarities. If someone is hiring a driver, highlight appropriate licenses, a clean driving record, adherence to safety rules, and delivery schedules. Strike the delicate balance of being descriptive yet succinct.”
2. Cultural Fit & Attitude: Does the candidate align with the company’s values and work environment? Are they adaptable and open to feedback? Do they show enthusiasm for the company and role?
“Recruiters are looking for capable, confident employees interested in the job,” says Anderson points out. “Be aware that your body language communicates unspoken, nonverbal cues. You can say the right words, but if your body language and attitude don’t align, you’re not believable. Make sure that you are upbeat, that you smile, lean forward, pay attention, and make eye contact in the interview. The message should be, ‘I want to be here. I want to be a part of this organization. I am eager to learn.’”
“It’s okay to also interview the recruiter, just be sure to ask questions in a respectful tone,” Meggett adds. “Just as they want to make sure you’re a good fit, reciprocally you want to make sure the company is a good fit for you. So whatever is important to you — the hours, benefits, growth potential, training opportunities, promotions, vacation time — it’s important that you ask those questions. It shows that you’ve put thought into the opportunity.”
3. Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking: Can they handle challenges and think on their feet? Do they take initiative and show resourcefulness?
“While interviewing, it's not always about what you did, but the way that you handled it,” Anderson says. “They want to see that you can solve problems, that you do not take things personal when at work. For example, if you’re interviewing for a customer service role, you want to communicate that you can maintain your composure when dealing with an upset customer. Recruiters want to hear that you are aware that you are a brand ambassador and represent the company.”
4. Communication Skills: Can they clearly and effectively communicate their ideas? Are they good listeners who can collaborate with others?
“Never just copy and paste from a job description to your resume, because when you get to the interview stage, you'll need to give examples of how you worked with your colleagues and performed certain tasks,” Anderson continues. “The interview is your chance to describe your process, how you dealt with challenges and worked within a team. You’re painting a picture of what type of employee you will be and what you will be like to work with.”
“Don’t forget professional etiquette — stay away from office rhetoric and gossip,” Meggett recommends. “Never, ever bad-mouth a past employer — even if what you’re saying about the company is true — because the recruiter will believe you are a negative person and that you will do the same when working for them.”
5. Growth Potential: Are they eager to learn and improve? Do they have leadership potential for future roles?
“Be prepared to answer questions about your goals and why you chose to apply for a position at their company,” says WPCCN Employment Counselor Joe Diaferia. “Recruiters want to know if a candidate invested time learning about the company and if it aligns with their values and who they are. Look at the company website and be prepared to discuss which direction you would like to grow in. Most of all, make sure you speak authentically and from the heart.”
6. Professionalism & Reliability: Do they show up prepared, punctual, and organized? Are they dependable and accountable for their work?
“Job seekers sometimes perform well at the interview and land the position, but blow the opportunity with small transgressions like not being punctual,” Meggett adds. “If the job starts at 9 a.m. and you’re still getting coffee at 9:05, you are technically late. Being on time means get there 10 minutes before and being in your seat working by 9. Make sure you can get to the job location on time. If you have to take public transportation, it’s going to be tough getting from Mount Vernon to northern Westchester by bus or train. Employers don’t want to hear excuses.”
7. Passion & Motivation: Are they genuinely interested in the role and company? Do they demonstrate a strong work ethic and drive?
“Be aware that the interview starts from the moment that you walk in,” Anderson recommends. “You never know who’s watching, who’s listening, so present yourself well from the moment you walk into that establishment and exude confidence.”
Some Final Tips from Anderson
“When it comes to attire, always dress on the conservative side. You want the recruiter paying attention to you and what is being said, rather than distracting jewelry, perfume, or fad clothing.
Also, I’ve spent up to an hour with clients who were so insecure before an interview. That’s when I say, ‘You’re the only one who can tell your story. The recruiter does not know you, so you have to exude confidence and believe in what you’re saying.’ That’s why it's so important to put an accurate depiction of who you are and what you've done on your resume and not stretch the truth. It’s easy to talk about things you know are true.”
