Skills managers look for when hiring engineers

If you are a recent graduate or have been in and out of the engineering field, you may be on the hunt for a job. Although you may have work experience, it can be difficult to know what hiring managers are looking for. No matter the hiring situation, these are skills that are always valuable:

Communication skills. Decent interpersonal communication skills are a must in any field, and engineering is no exception. Engineers must be able to brainstorm ideas, discuss conflicts and actively participate in meetings. With technology more advanced than ever, it can be tempting to work in isolation. Yet technology also means there are many more options for connecting with your work colleagues. Take advantage of them!

Executive presence. A mix of poise, leadership and industry knowledge — now that’s attractive to future employers! Let’s face it, a candidate who knows engineering and conducts himself or herself with confidence is much more likely to get the job than someone who is clueless. In order to avoid being caught off guard, start your research now.

Critical thinking. Every employer talks about critical thinking, but what exactly does it mean? Critical thinking, by definition, is the “the objective analysis and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgment.” In order to enhance critical thinking skills, one must think outside the box and learn how to effectively pitch an organized idea to your boss and co-workers.