As an experienced workplace psychologist, Dr. Benjamin Granger specializes in helping organizations create positive experiences for their employees and job candidates by focusing on key traits that employers value. One of the most important traits that employers look for in new hires is conscientiousness, which is part of the Big Five personality traits model. Conscientiousness is characterized by being organized, responsible, and hard-working, making it a valuable trait that predicts performance across many different jobs.
Employers value conscientious employees because they tend to find success regardless of the specific job tasks at hand, as their diligent and proactive approach translates well across various roles within an organization. During the hiring process, candidates can demonstrate conscientiousness through pre-hire personality assessments rooted in the Big Five model, as well as through effective interview responses that showcase their organizational skills and work ethic. Recruiters and hiring managers also pay attention to subtle cues such as responsiveness to communication and punctuality as indicators of conscientiousness.
For individuals looking to become more conscientious, self-reflection and feedback from trusted peers can help identify areas for improvement. Setting boundaries, carving out dedicated time for focus and recharge, and utilizing tools such as digital assistants or time management strategies can support individuals in developing their organizational skills and work ethic. While conscientiousness may not come naturally to everyone, it is a valuable and transferrable trait that employers consistently seek in job candidates.
Dr. Granger emphasizes the importance of being authentic in the workplace and not pretending to possess traits or skills that are not genuine. However, individuals can work on developing their conscientiousness through practice and effort, which may increase their chances of success in landing a fulfilling job. Employers value employees who demonstrate care, meticulousness, and proactivity, and developing these qualities can lead to increased opportunities for career advancement and job satisfaction.
Through his work at Qualtrics, Dr. Granger focuses on building Experience Management (XM) programs globally and leads research initiatives on Employee Experience (EX). He is also an instructor in CNBC’s online course on job interview skills, offering practical advice and strategies for job seekers looking to ace their interviews. By understanding what employers are looking for, presenting oneself authentically, and continuously developing key traits like conscientiousness, individuals can improve their chances of success in the job market and secure fulfilling career opportunities.
