The Best Companies to Work For. What are they looking for? See what their recruiters say.
“Make sure your resume and application are error-free and accurate. Research as much as you can about our company to determine if it is a good fit for you, and communicate your conclusions during the interview.” –Patti Breckenridge, recruiting manager
“We look for high energy, hospitality and team-oriented individuals with “the spirit to serve” — a strong part of Marriott’s culture and values — and experience in the industry or portable skills from other sectors.” –Steve Bauman, vice president, global market talent acquisition, Marriott International
A strong candidate not only will offer solutions to the problem at hand, but also will demonstrate a natural curiosity to explore other related issues and opportunities. Strong candidates will communicate what makes them unique, how they will contribute to our culture and how they will drive impact for our clients.”
“We look for people who smile, are enthusiastic, eager to learn, and in turn, want to teach others.” –Kevin Stickles, vice president of human resources, Wegmans
Secrets to impressing their recruiters
“Show us your expertise and interests beyond your resume. Creative projects like blogging and developing mobile applications grow your skills as well as help employers find you. It’s harder for us to get to know you if you only excel in a closed environment. Likewise, get to know us. Learn about our technologies and businesses before you apply. This research will help you identify the best jobs for your skills, prepare for your interviews, and show us you’re excited and ready to work here.” –Eugenia Sawa, staffing consultant for Bing and regular contributor to MicrosoftJobsBlog.com
Secrets to impressing their recruiters
“Our motto is hire for attitude, train for skill. It’s important that team members are passionate about our core values and our mission. Know something about WFM and have a genuine interest in the position you are applying for. Do some research and visit a store if you have not already done so. Show that you have a passion for the job. Be able to give real-life examples, not just hypothetical answers. Review our website and talk to team members in our stores and find out from them what it is like to work for the company.” –Karen Vaglica, associate team member services coordinator, Whole Foods Market global headquarters
Secrets to impressing their recruiters
“We know that candidates are good at many things, but we’re most interested in what exactly makes them each a rock star. What do they do so well that no one else can compete with them in this area.” –Jeff Vijungco, Adobe’s vice president of global talent acquisition
Secrets to impressing their recruiters
“Throughout the interview process, ambition and dedication to your role or career, as well as passion or love for what you do, always contribute to leaving a good impression. Professional attire, good eye contact, engaging conversation, a positive attitude, and sincerity are also aspects of an interview that leave a lasting impression.” –Kristen Meneely, nurse recruiter, Baptist Hospital of Miami
“Express your strong desire to join a fast growing company with a very collaborative culture. Describe previous experience in “going above and beyond” what’s expected of you. Understand how culture plays an essential part of the company, and share how you are a good fit with the company culture. Always do your homework on the company, including understanding of product lines, financial and general company information including culture and history.” –Grace Soriano-Abad, senior director, global staffing
Secrets to impressing their recruiters
“Providing insights and examples of success in current or previous work experiences is always a plus. We look for individuals with a proven track record of successful and upward career progression. In addition, these individuals should demonstrate a high degree of understanding regarding the financial advisor opportunity, along with a well-thought-out strategy on the commitment required to be successful in this opportunity.” –Mark Eberlin, partner, financial advisor recruiting
Secrets to impressing their recruiters
“Our recruiters look for people who demonstrate a love for learning, who are self-driven and flexible, who have the desire to operate not as an individual but as a collaborative team member pushing others and themselves to excel. We love adaptability, agility, and the ability to think beyond today. Our recruiters are also impressed by a commitment to inclusion and diversity and a desire to give back to the community.” –Mark Hamberlin, senior HR director, staffing.
Secrets to impressing their recruiters
“What impresses me is when a candidate has taken a lot of time to research CarMax beyond just knowing the basics of what we do. I’m particularly impressed when they talk about the values of our company and how they align with their own personal values. When they talk about that, I can usually “check the box” on culture fit.” –Danette Trotter, senior recruiter
Secrets to impressing their recruiters
“Be prepared to engage the recruiter with questions about the organization. Asking the right questions can be a strong indicator of a good consultant. When you are asked questions, answer the question in a concise and thorough way and work to engage the interviewer in a dialogue. Share a resume that demonstrates achievements and impact across academic, professional and extra-curricular experience and ensure that it highlights achievements that best match the position for which you are applying.” –Christopher Carlson, manager of university recruiting
