Every employer goes about hiring a new employee in a different manor. In most cases, however, employers are looking for employees who standout from the crowd in eight key areas. That may sound like a high expectation on the employer’s part, but thousands of people from around the world excel in most of, if not all of, the aforementioned areas. These areas are often referred to as the Eight Keys to Employability.

Why? Well, simply because if you can demonstrate qualities from each of the eight areas, you are a terrific candidate for hundreds of positions worldwide.

The Eight Keys to Employability are: personal values, problem-solving and decision-making, teamwork, communication, work habits, maturity, health and safety habits and commitment. The eight key areas are outlined below. Not only that, but examples of what could be written in a resume or said in an interview are listed below as well. These simple sentences will show employers that you possess the Eight Keys to Employability. In fact, they could make all the difference in the world when applying for a competitive position. Be sure to note any of the examples that apply to you or create your own.

Remember, you’ll need to brainstorm a few examples of how you have demonstrated these skills in the past. Employers want to see that you can walk the walk!

Personal Values: Employers are interested in goal-oriented people who have a positive outlook on life.

• I appreciate opportunities when they arise and do my best to make the most of them;
• I have a positive attitude, which helps me persevere through difficult tasks; and
• I am willing to explore my limitations and reach beyond them.

Problem-solving And Decision-making: Employers are interested in people who can make wise, educated decisions and solve difficult problems without losing their composure.

• I am more than willing to take on additional responsibilities;
• Working with others to solve difficult problems comes naturally to me; and
• I have no problem making a decision and carrying it out.

Teamwork: Employers are interested in sociable people who get along well with others and excel in team environments.

• I am a kind and friendly person. That is why making friends is easy for me;

• I work well in team environments; and
• I love feeding off of other’s energy and working in groups.>

Communication: Employers are interested in people who listen, speak and ask questions when they need to.

• I am a great listener, but I’m not afraid to voice my opinion;

• I can express myself in a professional manor; and
• I am not afraid to ask questions or ask for help when I need it.>

Work Habits: Employers are interested in dedicated people who can complete tasks on time and to the best of their ability.

• I am very detail-oriented, which is why it is not difficult for me to complete tasks on time;
• I take the time to get to know my work environment, and I genuinely care for everything within it; and
• I always follow directions and stick with tasks until the very end.

Maturity: Employers are interested in people who are responsible, reliable and willing to apply themselves.

• I always take pride in my work;
• I work well with or without supervision; and
• I am willing to take courses or complete programs to further my understanding of my position.

Health And Safety Habits: Employers are interested in safety-conscious people who understand the importance of workplace guidelines and regulations.

• I have been taught basic health and safety rules;
• I am aware of the dangers in the workplace and know how to protect myself; and
• I follow workplace guidelines and regulations without fail.

Commitment: Employers are interested in people who are dedicated to their tasks and the company in which they work for.

• I am always enthusiastic about my work;
• I love to learn new skills and abilities; and
• I always give 110%.

Remember, it is important to show employers that you are compatible with the Eight Keys as often as possible. Don’t be afraid to mention the Eight Keys on your resume, on your cover letter or during an interview.