Anglian Water are just one company who value the need for interpersonal skills in their graduates, saying: 

Our graduate programme offers the chance to take on placements around Anglian Water’s core business units, so interpersonal skills are essential. We want all of our graduates to be excellent communicators, and able to talk to people right around the business. When assessing this competency, we’re looking for somebody that can influence others and deliver difficult messages whilst remaining calm, professional and empathetic.

Qualifications for leadership

Your ability to lead should never be overlooked, even if you’re looking for an entry-level position. Taking charge of a project (and inspiring those around you to do their best) is a great way to demonstrate your leadership abilities. Not to mention the fact that many graduate courses are designed to train participants for managerial roles.

Samantha Meredith, recruiter for Enterprise Rent-A-Car explains:

‘When hiring for graduate roles, we’re always looking for people who possess the qualities that will enable them to become a successful leader. Our Management Training Programme offers our employees the chance to run their own branch in as little as two years and, because we promote from within, our graduates will be our leaders of tomorrow. When assessing this competency, we’re not looking for someone who commands the room but rather someone that can influence others whilst listening and working in a team.’

Initiative

Finding your first job after graduation can be challenging because of your likely lack of experience. Companies will have less of an expectation that you know everything on day one. But instead of waiting to be told what to do, taking the initiative to ask questions and exhibit curiosity will demonstrate your initiative. This is just one example of why proactiveness is a highly prized trait among companies looking to hire recent college grads.

Adaptability

Graduate programs, in particular, will require participants to be flexible. It’s important to show potential employers that you can handle whatever assignment they throw at you and have room to develop in the position they’re interviewing you for. Consequently, the ability to shift gears and perform jobs outside of one’s normal mandate is highly valued.

Confidence

It takes courage to take that first step in a new career. You shouldn’t, however, discount your own skills. You’ve spent the last few years researching (see also: preparing) for a career in this field, so you’re probably more qualified than you give yourself credit for. The transferable talents you developed in college will make you an advantage to many other companies, regardless of whether or not they have anything to do with your major. Don’t doubt yourself too much before submitting your applications. Keep in mind that self-assurance is always stylish.

Some other skills employers look for in graduates include:

• Self-awareness
• Decision making skills
• Ability to work under pressure
• Leadership
• Emotional intelligence
• Time management
• Creative problem solving
• Commercial awareness