Revealed: The top traits that cost interviewees the job

Whether you’re a contractor or permanent worker, impressing your interviewer is vital for securing a job and while skills and experience are key, many employers are looking for more.

A report from CV-Library and CV-writing firm TopCV, surveyed 200 employers and found that three-quarters (77%) of employers believe personality is most important when considering someone for a job; more so than education (13%) or appearance (12%).

When asked what they look for in candidates, after skills (80%) and experience (78%), organisations across the UK care most about personality.

The top personality turn-offs include being:

• Arrogant (65%)
• Dishonest (62%)
• Unreliable (60%)
• Close-minded (26%)
• Immoral (24%)
• Ignorant (23%)
• Entitled (18%)
• Self-centred (17%)
• Short-tempered (16%)
• Cruel (16%)

When asked about the traits that impress them the most when hiring, employers cite being reliable (62%), confident (61%), honest (58%), honourable (51%), loyal (32%), friendly (28%) and self-disciplined (27%) as their top choices.

Lee Biggins, founder and CEO of CV-Library, said, “In the current market, where skills shortages are making it harder for companies to find the right hires, employers are increasingly opting to recruit on potential over experience. So, if you’re looking for a new job right now, you’re in a good position; as long as you impress with the right personality traits.

“Of course, every hiring manager you meet will have their own preferences, but our research shows that there are a few key areas that could jeopardise your chances of securing a job. From being too arrogant when talking about yourself, to coming across as ignorant or self-centred; these are all traits that we as humans seek to avoid. So, make sure you portray the best version of yourself when meeting with potential employers.”

Amanda Augustine, careers expert at TopCV, added, “Historically, assessing job seekers was contingent on two factors – experience and skills – but our new survey reveals that more intangible qualities, such as personality, are determining which candidates rise to the top.”

To find out more about contracting please contact Amelia on 01442 795 100 or email amelia.bowlez@contractorumbrella.com.