We posed the following question to our staff: What do you see as the top skill a candidate needs when applying to a new engineering job?
Passion and energy for the position candidates are applying for makes up for a lot of qualities the employer is seeking. The employer probably already knows that you can do the job. He wants someone he can enjoy being around and trust.
The number one skill a candidate needs is verbal communication. It is important to have good communication skills so you can develop a variety of skills to others and from others.
The top skill depends entirely on your field. In marketing and sales, I would say social networking. In engineering, I would say 3D CAD and continuous improvement/Lean/Six Sigma.
Candidates must be employer focused. Companies want someone who understands employees have to work hard for the organization, and then everyone will be taken care of.
