When you prepare for a job interview, you do your research on the company, on the interviewers – if you know their names and functions – and on the job requirements. Then you probably think of how best to answer tricky questions, and what to ask them about the company. Finally, in most cases, you also need to present your work to address a task that the company has shared with you – most commonly, you end up using a PowerPoint presentation, but video displays, digital templates, and 3D plans are also brilliant alternatives depending on the task. In other words, preparing for a job interview is about showing the best of your skills in terms of understanding, knowledge, creative problem-solving, experience and professionalism. What you can’t do, though, is preparing for all these external factors that may get you a job. Don’t assume that having any of the following features means that you’ll land your dream job without professional skills. But when employers are struggling to pick the best-suited candidate, these surprising factors put you on top of the list.
- Your Accent Is Employable
If you’ve never considered your accent, you might be surprised to find out that some accents are more employable than others. Indeed, regional accents in the UK, for instance play a role in your employment history. While you will not be expressively hired because of your accent, there are certain clichés that might lead to discrimination or favoritism. The Queen’s English accent, even though it is only spoken by 3% of the population, is considered to be the most employable accent. If you work in a call center, a Scottish accent in the UK is preferred, as it makes you instantly sound friendlier. In opposition, the Brummie accent – from the Birmingham area – is linked to the assumption that people are less intelligent.
- Your Last-Minute Availability
Being easily available, even at a last-minute notice, can make you more easily employable. Indeed, when employers need to fill up specific shifts using a shift planning software, they prefer employees who are easy to schedule. In other words, if you are available at any time throughout the day and night, given reasonable notice, you are more likely to get the shift. Digital technology makes it is easier for staff managers to create staff rota for hospitals, restaurants, bars and other types of businesses that are operating 24/7. Specifically designed rota apps allow shifts to be shared in real time. Being available means less preparation on the manager’s perspective.
- You Can Speak Foreign Languages
Even if your job doesn’t require any foreign language, you are more likely to make a positive impression if your resume mentions that you’ve been studying or working abroad. Why so? Because it shows to employers that you have a global experience and you are culturally aware. Additionally, the fact that you’ve been spending time abroad is an indication that you are self-sufficient and able to care for yourself. When some employees are still failing to show any sense of initiative and independent thinking, your studies or job abroad proves exactly the opposite. It’s not specifically your ability to speak a foreign language that is valued – unless it is relevant to the job, of course – but it’s the fact that you’ve left the beaten path and adapted to new perspectives.
- You Have a Lovely Smile
A convincing smile can get you anywhere. What is the purpose of a smile? It breaks social, generational, and cultural barriers between people. It can bring everyone together. More importantly, a smile conveys trust and confidence. A smile is an integral part of human communication. Consequently, a genuine smile in an interview can easily give you an edge over the other applicants. The reason for it is that smiling makes you more likable, and consequently can convince the employer that you are a better fit for the position. Don’t overdo it: You still need to show some skills too!
- You Work(ed) for Charities
You might think that volunteering is a waste of your time, especially as it is not paid. But you’d be wrong to reject the opportunity to volunteer for a cause you love. Indeed, volunteer work demonstrates that you can invest time and effort without being motivated by money. This is extremely valuable for employers. Charity work is the best evidence that you can have when it comes to showing dedication, motivation, and passion. More importantly, the world of volunteering is also a brilliant canvas for professional networking. In other words, it’s a win-win.
- You Are Slim
Did you know that you are most likely to get hired if you’re slim? While this might sound like a discriminatory behavior, in truth, a healthy BMI – Body Mass Index – makes a positive first impression. As an employer, you would naturally prefer your staff to be healthy. Consequently, as slim is considered healthy, candidates who are on the upper end of the slim range are more likely to be perceived as convincing and skilled. It doesn’t mean that overweight applicants can’t get the job. But when the choice is between two equally skilled and experienced candidates, the slimmer one is more likely to get hired. To put things into perspective, it means that the gym workouts should now be part of your interview preps!
- You Have a Blog
Do you know what the first thing that an employer does to check your resume? Looking at your online presence. Your digital footprint is a significant factor in securing a role. Indeed, being in a position where you can demonstrate digital reputation – for all the right reasons, such as the creation of useful and helpful content – gives you the edge on the competition. Your online presence is your professional business card. Consequently, your blog, if it addresses topics that are relevant to your future employer, can become a positive and influential reference. Employers like to see that you have a professional voice and that you have a valuable opinion, even if you’re not an expert.
