Job ads still list the usual: qualifications, experience, and industry knowledge. However, talk to people on the hiring side, and a different theme emerges. When considering what recruiters want in 2025, it’s clear that in a year shaped by unpredictability—economic pressure, shifting team structures, and rapid tech changes—companies are placing more weight on how candidates carry themselves, not just what’s on their résumé.
They’re looking for people who stay composed under pressure. People who don’t panic when things change. People who listen well and bounce back fast.
Composure Over Perfection
It’s not about having all the answers—it’s about how you respond when you don’t. Interviews are designed to reveal more than your experience; they give recruiters a glimpse into how you manage uncertainty.
Can you handle a left-field question without getting flustered? Can you reflect on a failure without defensiveness? These moments matter more than polished scripts.
Consistency Matters More Than You Think
Being reliable is increasingly seen as a strength. Recruiters are looking for candidates who bring a steady presence—those who communicate, ask thoughtful questions, and stay grounded even when the hiring process stretches out longer than expected.
This consistency suggests you’ll bring the same steadiness to the team, which is especially valuable in high-change environments.
Your Demeanour Tells a Story
What you say is important, but how you say it often leaves a bigger impression. Clarity, curiosity, and humility signal you’re not just competent, but collaborative and resilient too. These aren’t things you can fake. They’re developed through experience, and they show up when it counts.
As you approach job search conversations this financial year, focus on more than your technical pitch. Your mindset and the way you carry yourself are often what set you apart.
Not sure where you stand? Take the free MTQ Lite assessment and get a quick snapshot of your mindset.
