What do employers want?

Fresh graduates should be able to think beyond their core discipline and possess people skills, say experts
RICHARD LOBO
Vice President and Head, HRD units, Infosys
The millennial workforce's requirements are different from those of gen X employees.Millennial candidates want career advancement and require a strong understanding of the company's vision as well as a platform for constant two-way communication with the senior management.These are some of the qualities recognised as inherent in recent college graduates, and companies have initiatives in place to engage and retain them.
Also, as organisations mature in the solutions they provide, clients' expectations are bound to rise. That is why new skills, which combine an understanding of the domain, technology and consulting, are crucial in today's time. Novel technologies and platforms particularly call for niche skills which may not be found at junior levels. Therefore, accelerating experience and skill development are key.
Recent college graduates aspiring to enter the IT industry must demonstrate a keen knowledge of technology trends and how they can be applied to solve business problems. Employers look for critical thinking skills and learnability. A deep interest in technology, good communication skills and a demonstrated abil ity to work well in teams are critical to land a job in the IT sector. Smart, talented, self motivated individuals with an entrepreneurial bent are al ways seen as desirable candidates. The ability to scale up in a short span of time and thrive in a dynamic work environment make a great difference. Job-seekers must have a thirst for new and challenging experiences.
Industry needs skills in big f data, cloud, mobility, product development, domain technology consulting, etc. There is also an additional focus on specific niche skills along with key attributes like client-centricity, problem-solving orientation, engaging communication, as well as the ability to learn and fit in.
During placement drives, it is important to be wellgroomed, listen carefully to the questions being asked and elaborate on your responses, based on personal experiences.
Candidates who have achieved recognition in fields such as sport, volunteerism and extra-curricular activities tend to attract the interviewer's attention because they have shown their aptitude and potential as all-rounders.
One would pick individuals with strong technical competence and an orientation to innovation.
RAJESH RAWAT
Assistant Co-ordinator, training and placement, Netaji Subhas Institute of Technology, University of Delhi
Apart from domain knowledge, recruiters look for strong communication skills and problem-solving abilities.Candidates must be able to think rationally and apply logic and analysis to everyday problems.Further, they should be able to think beyond their core discipline. A number of companies are diversifying. Even while inducting people for technical roles, they seek out candidates who have some knowledge of other verticals as well. Just because one would be picked for a coding profile does not mean they should have no idea of other roles or depart ments. Companies are more than happy to welcome those who are not just proficient in their jobs but can also align and integrate with other verticals. While industrial exposure is a crucial marker, one should also be able to establish that they have exposure beyond their technical domain. It is a well-rounded, multifaceted personality that can help one stand out from the crowd.
MOORTHY K UPPALURI
CEO, Randstad India
In today's highly competitive job environment, having a degree that highlights one's core competencies and skills is not enough. Employers attribute an increased importance to the `atti tude' factor along with the `aptitude'. Companies tend to look at a complete package while hiring fresh graduates and candidates need to go that extra mile to make the cut.
Here are some essential skills that can help one land a coveted job: Communication skills: The most significant way to sail through the interview is to polish one's communication skills, both written and verbal.This is the best way to stand out as a worthy candidate.
Aptitude for leadership: It is not just the academic record and domain expertise that matter, but also your proficiency to be a great leader. Not every body can master this skill; however, one can work on building their inherent leadership qualities by taking initiatives and responsibility.
People skills: Good interpersonal skills are key as they reflect the fact that you are sociable and can work harmoniously with others. Interviewers usually test one's teamplaying skills through questions relating to reallife scenarios, including participation in extra-curricular activities.
Analytical thinking: Impromptu thinking and problem-solving skills are crucial for the job market.
Willingness to learn and being proactive: It is vital to come across as independent and not someone who needs to be pushed to complete tasks.