All companies want to find that star candidate – the person who is perfect for the job. But in our years of experience as recruiters in Toronto, we can tell you that identifying that top candidate is more challenging than most realize.
For any given job ad, you could receive dozens or hundreds of applications. After sorting through those resumes, it can be difficult to separate the contenders from the pretenders. You’ll have some candidates who are an obvious ‘no,’ and you’ll have some you are on the fence about.
Then you have the candidates you want to interview. Some you want to learn more about, some meet all the qualifications, and perhaps others seem to be too good to be true. How do you know if a candidate should be at the top of the list from reading their resume and speaking with them? There are some telltale signs I’ll outline below:
What Is a Top Job Candidate?
A top job candidate is an individual who stands out among applicants for a position due to their exceptional qualifications, skills, experience, and overall fit for the role. They demonstrate strong expertise in the relevant field, possess the necessary technical and soft skills, and align well with the company’s culture and values. A top candidate often has a proven track record of success, excellent references, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to the organization. Their potential for growth, leadership, and long-term impact also makes them highly desirable to employers.
What Are The Signs Of Top Job Candidates?
The top signs of job candidates can vary based on who you speak with. In discussing this topic with our recruitment team, we came to an agreement on the following 10 signs you’ve identified a top job candidates. Here they are:
1. They Followed All the Application Instructions
It’s common for candidates to submit incomplete applications or to fail to complete every step. Applications are not just about following instructions. They prove that the candidate can pay attention to detail and is serious about the job. If a candidate cannot follow directions or take the time to complete all requirements, it may be a reflection of how they operate in the workplace.
2. They Are Authentic Individuals
Strong candidates display authenticity in their interactions, demonstrating genuine interest and honesty. They are not trying to be something they are not. They are open about their experiences and qualifications, which helps build a trustworthy rapport. These candidates respond to questions directly and candidly, even if it means acknowledging they don’t have all the answers.
3. They Ask You Great Questions
Top candidates ask great questions. They’ve researched the position and have a curiosity about the role, company culture, and what the company is actually like to work for compared to what they have read or heard. The questions they ask can tell you a lot about them.
4. They Are Motivated And Performance Driven
High-quality candidates are self-motivated, taking initiative, setting goals, and driving themselves to succeed. To identify such candidates, ask how they measure their own performance and see if they inquire about how your organization does the same.
5. They Take a Team First Approach
A collaborative work environment has never been more encouraged and common. Top candidates take a team-first approach. Top candidates are open and happy to work collaboratively with their peers and contribute to the greater goals and objectives of the organization.
6. They Embrace Change
Nothing stays the same for too long anymore. Your organization needs talent that is highly adaptive to change in the workplace. Top candidates can provide you with examples of how they were able to adapt to change quickly and grow professionally as a result.
7. They Are Actively Looking to Learn and Grow
Top candidates have a desire to grow professionally. They not only want to evolve into new roles over time, but they also have a desire to learn, add new skills, and become a more experienced expert in their field.
8. They Have a Proven Track Record of Success
A stable work history is a key indicator of a high-quality candidate, especially in today’s job market where frequent job changes are common. Strong candidates distinguish themselves by highlighting tangible results, such as increased sales or improved processes. What should you look for? These achievements should be visible on their resume, showcasing their value.
9. They Fit the Culture
Seek individuals who align with your company values and can seamlessly integrate into your team dynamics. A good cultural match fosters better collaboration and overall success. If a candidate seems to embody the core values of your organization, it’s a good sign they will fit in with your team.
10. Everyone Is In Agreement
Hiring is a collaborative exercise. Candidates will meet multiple people throughout the process. If everyone is in agreement they like the candidate, it’s a good sign that you’ve found the right person for the job.
A Final Word On The Signs of Top Job Candidates
Finding the perfect candidate is a challenge that many companies face, especially given the large number of applications that a job posting can attract. Identifying the top candidates among these can be difficult, but certain telltale signs can help. A top job candidate stands out due to their exceptional qualifications, skills, and cultural fit. They demonstrate authenticity, ask insightful questions, and show a strong motivation to succeed. Additionally, they are team-oriented, adaptable to change, and eager to learn and grow. Their resumes often highlight a stable work history with tangible achievements. When everyone involved in the hiring process agrees on a candidate, it’s a strong indicator that they are the right fit for the job.
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