Learn what employers want when hiring

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Jimmy Bysell:
What if you could read the mind of the person interviewing you for a job? How much easier would your job search be? Today, we’ll reveal what goes on inside the employer’s head when hiring. Keep listening to find out more.

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Jimmy:
Welcome to the New in Sweden Podcast. My name is Jimmy, and I work here at Arbetsförmedlingen. With me is my colleague Pär. Today, we’ll discuss the following question, “What are employers looking for when hiring?” Later in the program, Pär will share some tips to help you in your job search.

Pär:
So, Jimmy. What are employers looking for when hiring?

Jimmy:
Well, we actually asked some recruiters from different companies what they think is most important when hiring.

Pär:
Okay, and what did they say?

Jimmy:
There are a few things that most recruiters mentioned. The first is that you should be well-prepared for the interview. You should practice questions and answers at home. Think about the questions that might come up in the interview and how to answer them, to present the best image of yourself.

Pär:
Of course. Being well-prepared is very important when job hunting, especially when going to an interview.

Jimmy:
The second thing is that, before the interview, you should think of some situations from previous jobs or studies, where you have successfully used the skills, they are looking for.

Pär:
Can you explain what that means?

Jimmy:
They want you to describe a situation where you used the skills that the employer is looking for and achieved something with a positive result. For example, if the employer is looking for someone who is good at problem-solving, don’t just say that you’re a problem solver. Instead, describe a situation where you handled a problem well and describe the results.

Pär:
Alright. What else did the recruiters mention?

Jimmy:
The third thing is that you should show that you have energy, are positive, and can help the company improve. Companies always want to develop. They look for people with the right attitude, energy, and willingness to contribute to development and change.

Pär:
Okay, Jimmy. There’s something I’ve been thinking about for some time now. What do employers think when someone says, “I need a job. I could do anything”?

Jimmy:
That’s a great question. When you say that, the employer understands that you’re desperate for any job, and not necessarily just the job you’ve applied for.

Pär:
I agree on that. For example, if the employer wants a skilled salesperson, you should show that you’re good at sales and focus on that. We have talked a lot about the interview, but what should you think about regarding the CV?

Jimmy:
A common mistake is sending the same CV and cover letter to all jobs you apply for. Employers notice that, and it’s not a good thing.

Pär:
Why not?

Jimmy:
Employers are interested in people who really want the specific job they’re offering, so you should tailor your CV and cover letter to the job you’re applying for.

Pär:
Okay. Another question… Do you need to write an email when you send the CV and cover letter?

Jimmy:
Writing a short email when sending in your CV and cover letter can be enough. For example, "This is my application for the position of salesperson. I am eager to hear more from you.”

Pär:
Is there anything else you should think about according to the employers?

Jimmy:
Yes, definitely. Employers can see the email address you’re using when sending in your application. Use a normal email address with your name and surname. For example, you should rather use “jimmy.bysell@gmail.com, than love007@hotmail.com.

Pär:
That’s true. Every detail contributes to the employer’s impression of you.

Jimmy:
Yes. There’s another thing that the employers also mentioned.

Pär:
Okay. What was that?

Jimmy:
In job ads, the employers usually ask a question. The question might be, "We need someone who can do this… Are you that person?"

Pär:
Right.

Jimmy:
So, with your application, you should convince the employer that you in fact are that person.

Pär:
How do I do that?

Jimmy:
As we mentioned earlier – tailor your CV and cover letter to the specific job you’re applying for. Don’t send the same CV and cover letter to every company.

Pär:
That’s good advice, Jimmy. What else is important to the employer?

Jimmy:
You should include your name on all pages of your CV and cover letter. Contact information is important. Employers need to be able to find your phone number and email address with ease. It could also be a good idea to include a photo of yourself.

Pär:
Jimmy, about the job ad? Did the employers have any advice regarding that?

Jimmy:
Employers want you to read the ad carefully and understand exactly what they’re looking for, and what experiences and qualities are required for the job.

Pär:
And it’s important to know a lot about the company, right?

Jimmy:
Yes, absolutely. Read about the company, look at their website, and check out their social media accounts.

Pär:
Thanks, Jimmy.

Jimmy:
It’s time to wrap up this episode. Pär, at the start of this episode, I promised that you would share a few tips. I’m really excited to hear them.

Pär:
Absolutely. I have some tips I want to share.
1. Practice presenting yourself and your skills before going to an interview. Think about how you would answer questions about your experiences and strengths. You can also practice with a friend or family member. The more you practice, the more confident you will feel.
2. Create a list of the jobs you’ve applied for and when you submitted the applications. Also, note if you have received any responses or if you should follow up on any applications. Being organized helps you keep track of your applications and ensures that you don’t miss any opportunities.
And 3. Ask questions during the interview that show that you have thought about the role and the company. This not only shows that you are well-prepared but also that you are genuinely interested in working there.

Jimmy:
And those were the final words for today. Thank you for listening to today’s episode of the New in Sweden Podcast.
If you liked today’s episode of the New in Sweden Podcast, please subscribe to our podcast, and share it with your friends. Also, follow us on social media for more useful tips and updates. See you in the next episode.

Pär:
Goodbye.

Jimmy:
Bye.

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speaker:
You have been listening to the New in Sweden podcast by Arbetsförmedlingen. You can find all previous episodes at arbetsformedlingen.se/play. If you have any questions, tips, or ideas, please email us at podcast@arbetsformedlingen.se. This episode was produced in the winter of 2024.

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