Experience tops CV wish list for employers

Employers have revealed that the number one priority when selecting a candidate is solid and relevant experience, according to the latest poll carried out by leading national staffing services company, Select Appointments. Of the 700 employers polled, 40 per cent identified experience as top.

This was closely followed by 35 per cent of employers who were more interested in personality. Only 11 per cent highlighted appearance as important, whilst industry knowledge came in at 12 per cent.

Rachael Moss, head of communications, Select Appointments said: Employers have a very short window of opportunity to form opinions about potential employees and have to pass quick judgements as to whether or not they are the right fit for the role and organisation. Interviewers need to prepare as rigorously as a job seeker does. The information gathered during an interview is essential for making a well-informed decision. Unfortunately, many employers don’t spend enough time preparing for interviews. A good amount of planning goes a long way towards hiring the right person - and reduces the risk of choosing the wrong one.

Previous experience highlights the ability to carry out a job function. However, where there is the opportunity for on-the-job training, employers should not discount candidates with the right personality or attributes who could turn out to be invaluable employees of the future.

Of course, another way to determine whether someone is a good fit, and a means of effectively extending the interview process, is to go down the ’temporary-to-permanent’ route, if candidates are available for immediate employment. This allows the company to see the individual in situation performing the role.