Yes, employers do characterize employees based on hard skills, however, it’s the soft skills and intangibles they always get asked about when someone calls them up for a reference about a job applicant. In fact, the majority of a reference phone call to one of your past employers is commonly heavily waited on conversation around the 10 things that require zero talent.

But why? Why are these skills so important today? Employers today put a huge emphasis on how an applicant will fit into their workplace. It’s no secret that when two candidates are close in skill, the one who usually wins is the one who best nails the 10 things that require zero talent.

That’s why it’s essential to excel in these traits. Keep this checklist handy. Each one of these 10 items collectively forms a perception about you. Make it a good one.

 

1. Being on time

2. Work ethic

3. Effort

4. Body language

5. Energy

6. Attitude

7. Passion

8. Being coachable

9. Doing extra

10. Being prepared