What hiring managers like in a candidate

- Did you know that interviewers make a decision about your candidacy in the first 90 seconds of meeting you? At this early stage, hiring managers are mostly observing your nonverbals to make an initial assessment. And while it's always possible to change their perspective later, showing up 10 minutes early, making eye contact, offering a firm handshake and dressing the part will definitely be a positive start. Here are other qualities of likable candidates. First, know your audience. You've heard it before, and it stands for the interview. In order to sell the product, which is you, it's critical to know what's important to the buyer. While you may have several impressive qualities, focus on the ones most relevant to the role you're applying to. Then go one step further. Consistently tie your responses to how they'll positively impact the bottom line. Many candidates miss this step, but when you do this heavy lifting for the hiring manager, they'll be impressed you understand their core needs, and will have an easier time seeing you as a match for the role. Next, be human. Although you may not have thought about it, the hiring manager actually wants you to do well in the interview. The quicker they can fill their open position with a qualified person, the faster they can refocus on other company priorities. So if you need a moment to think about a response to an unexpected question, ask for it. "That's a great question, can I have a moment "to think of the best example?" Or if you're nervous, remember that anxiety and excitement trigger some of the same physical sensations, so admitting, "I'm excited to have the opportunity "to learn more about the role," may be enough to cause your fear to dissipate. And in the end, remember, a big part of the interview is evaluating if you're fit for the team, and that isn't something you could fake, nor should you. Prepare the best you can, and then be yourself. Prepare insightful questions. Managers are eager to hire candidates who will show drive and motivation to join the team, but even if you're not the expressive type, you can still demonstrate your interest and enthusiasm for the role in other ways. One way is to prepare insightful questions. It's a given you'll be asked what questions you have, so be ready. Here's a secret. Prepare questions you'd ask if you were on the job in the first day, because these will usually show your curiosity and engagement. Ask about team goals, current challenges, how your department interacts with other groups, or what company changes are coming that you should be aware of. Avoid asking questions you can research online, or only reflect your personal interest, such as when you can expect a raise. A manager will be impressed that you already have the best interest of the company in mind as an applicant, and it'll end your interview with a favorable impression. It's likely you'll spend a lot of time working closely with your new manager once you land the job, so it's understandable why they would be seeking to hire someone who is both talented and easy to be around.