You’ve got a big interview coming up. You’ve been researching the company online, practicing your answers, and coming up with a list of thoughtful questions to ask about the job. But do you know what the hiring manager really wants to hear from you when they’re asking a particular question? In other words, do you know the exact areas, skills, and experiences they are most interested in…and what responses will get their attention?

If you don’t, not to worry. We’re here to help! Below is a list of questions hiring managers typically have about each candidate and what they really want to know about each. When you keep these things in mind, you can boost your confidence, answer questions more effectively, and stand out from the sea of other applicants applying for the same job as you.

Here’s a look:

Do You Have the Right Mix of Hard & Soft Skills?

Having the right technical skills to do the job is a no brainer if you want to move forward in the hiring process. So you need to convince the hiring manager that you have the chops.

But as one of the leading Houston, TX staffing agencies, Murray Resources knows there’s more to a great candidate than hard skills. That’s why you also need to indicate you have the soft skills that are a fit for doing the job as well.

For instance, if the position is for an accountant, you need to showcase you accounting skills, as well as your ability to collaborate with others to ensure the company stays on track financially. So if someone has a little less experience than you in accounting, but shows a stronger ability to collaborate effectively with others, they may have a leg up on you.

Are You a Cultural Fit?

When a hiring manager starts asking questions about the kinds of environments you work best in, they’re probing for a cultural fit. They want to ensure that if you were to come on board, you have the personality that not only fits with the position and the department, but the company as a whole.

What’s Your Attitude Like?

You may have the most experience of all the job candidates, but if your attitude comes across as anything but positive, then you could be out of the running. Employers want to hire people with positive attitudes, who are ready to tackle problems and devise solutions; people who don’t need to have their hand held and don’t complain every time things don’t go their way.

Do You Really Want the Job?

Sure, you want a job. But do you want this job? That’s what hiring managers want to know. The last thing they want to deal with is a candidate who gets hired and then leaves after six months. So if you come across as eager to learn and enthusiastic not just about the job, but about the company as well, you’re more likely to get hired.

Need More Help Getting Noticed By Hiring Managers?

If you do, give Murray Resources a call. As one of the leading Houston, TX staffing agencies, we take your career success personally. Not only will we work one-on-one with you to learn about your background and personality, but we can also connect you with exciting and rewarding opportunities at some of the top employers in the area! Contact us today to learn more.