The 'X Factor'. Do You Have It? How Can You Get It?

​What gives an HR professional the edge at interview? How does a person with similar experience and education, on paper, stand out above the rest of the pack?

Rarely do we see companies make hiring decisions based solely on track record, experience or professional qualifications. No doubt these are all necessary to get you on the short-list, however it is at interview where the hiring process really begins. So what gives you the edge?

In our experience when assessing HR candidates, it’s the soft (power) skills we are immediately drawn to. Call it the “X Factor”. The most impressive HR candidates demonstrate these key characteristics. It’s in the way they carry themselves, the positive energy they exude, the interest they show in others and their disarming manner. As the interviewer is drawn to these characteristics so to will the future stakeholder, peers, bosses and staff. It’s these HR professionals that are in demand. We have a constant inflow of searches, yet it is difficult to find this “X Factor” talent in large quantities.

How do you develop these power skills? Be open to learning from those around you, it immediately puts you in a space of being relational and present. By listening and observing, you will be able to understand people, discover how they tick and how they respond so that you will be able to deliver quality solutions. Be of service. Go in with the attitude of helping out. Sounds simple, yet it’s a winning formula. An HR business partner is employed to help the business prosper. The beauty of this approach is that it will enable you to integrate into the team. People will want to include you in their plans. Think less and take action, it’s action that leads to results. Regularly ask for feedback. “How did I go? How can I improve?” And make the necessary changes.

By practicing the above skills in all of your working affairs, positive “sustainable” change will be inevitable and will give you that extra edge needed to propel yourself and your company to the next level.