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Do you possess the key competencies?

Here we provide a list of some of the key competencies that you as a candidate may be assessed against when applying for jobs with graduate employers:

  • Communication

  • You can express ideas (both verbally and in writing) clearly and effectively in both formal and informal situations. You possess the ability to present well-researched information and ideas in a logical sequence and you can adjust your use of language and terminology to suit the needs and characteristics of your audience.

  • Influencing

  • You can successfully influence others, who may be outside the line of formal authority, to accept a position, case or argument. You are not afraid to make your views known or to defend your position from criticism. You are aware of being assertive without being aggressive.

  • Achievement orientation

  • You energetically channel your career ambitions towards the achievement of your personal and organisational goals. You enjoy learning new things and pro-actively seek opportunities and challenges, whilst having the ability to adapt to new situations.

  • Problem analysis

  • You are not prepared to accept things at face value, and find it necessary to ask questions and evaluate information to get to the bottom of a problem. You have skills in critically examining a situation through the use of effective questioning/probing techniques. You can comfortably analyse numerical and statistical information, and operate in a systematic and logical manner.

  • Judgement/problem solving

  • You look to generate alternative solutions to problems based on a logical evaluation of all available information. You possess creative qualities, and are prepared to consider untried solutions. Assumptions and facts are thoroughly checked, and you weigh up the pros and cons of available options before deciding on your course of action.

  • Planning and organising

  • You are able to identify the component activities required to achieve goals and you can establish priorities and task sequence when give available resources. You employ a systematic and structured approach to your work, thoroughly preparing in advance. You also develop appropriate techniques such as checklists for planning and monitoring projects.

  • Taking responsibility

  • You are prepared to accept responsibility for the achievement of goals, whilst taking ownership of your problems, and only ask for assistance when necessary. You are willing to take decisions and have the ability to 'think on your feet'.

  • Resilience/self confidence

  • You remain calm under pressure, and maintain a positive outlook. You have confidence in your own ability but are able to accept criticism. You can control negative emotions when you believe it to be necessary.

  • Building/maintaining relationships

  • You are able to build effective working relationships within and outside your immediate team. You will take action that indicates a consideration for the feeling and needs of others; being aware of the impact of your own behaviour has on others. You are friendly, open and communicate, and able to establish a rapport with people at all levels of the organisation. You encourage co-operation and value the team as a vehicle for getting things done.
    the grb team grb author

    Graduate Recruitment Bureau (GRB) is the UK's highest review-rated graduate recruitment consultancy. Every day our teams of sector-specific experts get contacted by major graduate recruiters, SMEs and start-ups who are looking for high calibre university students and graduates.

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