It is not enough to just look at a candidate on paper and say, “They are good enough, let’s make an offer”. Getting in a room with the candidate and thoroughly interviewing them can bring out their personality, culture fit, and overall potential. It’s not enough to check off the box of years of experience, ability to use Excel, and call it good. Get to know the candidate’s true qualities and what would make them great employees. What candidate qualities should you be looking for? Here are the 4 qualities that a great candidate has that sets them apart from the rest:

1. Ability to Learn

A candidate that has shown their ability to learn and adapt can be a great addition to your team. For example, if a candidate has experience using an accounting system that your company does not use, don’t rule them out. Ask them to tell you about a time when they had to learn and adapt in their previous jobs. A fast learner can learn your system and excel at it without missing a beat. This quality also shows the potential of the candidate to take on new roles and responsibilities in the future.

2. Honesty

Piggybacking on the last point, look for a candidate that will be honest with you in the interview. Sometimes, a candidate will stretch the truth about their ability or experience in a certain area just to get the job. An honest candidate will be up front with you if they don’t have that experience but will be willing to learn. They will be employees that you can have full confidence in and trust with important projects.

3. Positive Attitude

A positive and uplifting personality can go unnoticed by many hiring managers and this is a mistake. After all, who wants to work with people that are always down and pessimistic? An optimistic and upbeat employee is someone you want on your team when you are in the trenches trying to get through a difficult time. Positivity is contagious and can help your team’s productivity levels.

4. They Do Their Homework

How great is it when a candidate comes in prepared with notes, materials, ideas, and knows all about your company? A candidate that does their homework before the interview is a great quality to have. It shows that they are detail oriented and you can count on them to always be prepared.