While every candidate is unique, there are some common qualities that all recruiters and employers are looking for in potential new hires.  Below are a three of those essential qualities that every candidate must have:

1.     Passion for their work.  Recruiters and employers aren’t looking for candidates who just want a “job” they want someone who has a calling to do the type of job they are applying for.  Are you passionate about your work?  If the answer is yes, then think of ways that you can prove it to employers.  Maybe you mentor youth who want to work in your field or volunteer your legal skills and expertise to senior citizens.  Whatever you do that proves you are passionate about your work, make sure you share it with potential employers and recruiters.

2.     The ability to learn from their mistakes.  Making mistakes is just a part of life, but what makes the best candidates stand out, is their ability to take their mistakes and transform them into lessons. Employers and recruiters are looking for job candidates who are humble enough and smart enough to admit they have made mistakes and have learned from those errors.  Be ready to share your stories of mistakes that have turned out to be learning moments which have taken you to the next level in your career.

3.     The ability to work well with others.  Recruiters and employers aren’t just looking for candidates who are good “lone guns” so to speak, they are looking for those candidates who integrate well into their existing corporate culture.  Candidates who exhibit the ability to work as a part of the existing corporate culture to achieve the firm’s goals are the most sought after new hires.