Personality, technical proficiency, education, and cultural fit are just a few of the traits hiring managers consider when deciding which job candidate to hire. During an interview, job candidates are also measured on their accomplishments and potential value to the company.

Understanding what goes into a hiring manager’s decision-making process can help you better strategize and improve your chances of landing the job you want.

Acing the Interview Process

It’s a highly competitive world in the IT industry right now. One of the best ways to stand out is by being thoroughly prepared for the interview process. The questions hiring managers ask in an interview are often designed to learn more about who you are as a person.

For instance, not being able to articulate clearly what you did in your last position or how you contribute as a team player can be major red flags for managers who might conclude you lack the necessary communication skills for the job.

Top Factors Hiring Managers Consider

More than 25 years in the IT recruiting business has taught us that while many hiring factors evolve, one remains surprisingly consistent. Ultimately, most hiring managers want to hire someone who has the perfect blend of technical and soft skills to fit the company culture and team dynamic. Depending on the role, here are the traits they generally look for to find that fit.

• Culture fit. Culturally fitting in goes beyond having the right personality. Are you someone who’s capable of supporting and working with all relevant departments and teams? Hiring managers typically ask a range of soft skill questions to determine if you’re likely to fit in easily with the company’s culture.


• Initiative and preparation. As the saying goes, if you fail to plan, you plan to fail. If you want to impress a hiring manager, do something so many other candidates don’t: study the job description, research the company, and practice for the interview. A hiring manager will always know if you’re trying to wing it. One of the best ways to prep for an interview is to work with an IT recruiter who can make sure you get the most out of the 20 or 30 minutes you spend with a hiring manager.


• Soft and hard skills. Attention to detail, strong communication skills, and leadership attributes are some of the soft skills hiring managers try to assess during an interview. Tech skills are equally important, so that makes it imperative to keep them up-to-date. New tools and systems are being introduced all the time, so be sure to stay current with your online certifications and trainings through industry news.

Benefits of Working With an IT Recruiter

Working with an IT recruiter can give you “the upper hand” in landing the job you want. They not only help you be memorable in job interviews, but are also an invaluable resource for information on a company’s hiring practices and culture. To learn more about all the ways an IT recruiter can help you be the candidate hiring managers want to hire, apply for an open role or contact Taurean Consulting Group at 702-529-0378 today.