By Rachel Andrea Ko Go
Writer, Profiles Asia Pacific
Don’t match a person to a position; match a personality type to a role. – Sarah Schupp, CEO of UniversityParent.com
Positions, like people, are unique. Hiring managers obviously look for different qualifications depending on which job they are trying to fill; most job listings specify that in the description. However, the best hiring managers know that they should also be looking for different qualities in the people they hire for entry-level and for managerial positions.
To give you an idea of how different profiles suit different positions, below are some top qualities of an intern versus top qualities of a good manager. Of course, all the traits we list are important for everyone to have, and whether they are entry-level or managerial. However, there is a difference between necessary and recommended personality traits. For example, the ability to recognize the accomplishments of others is more desired in managers than interns.
Traits of a Good Intern
- Takes initiative
- Willing to learn
- Adaptable
- Innovative
- Open to change
- Humility
- Good work ethic
Traits of a Good Manager
- Good leader
- Meticulous planner
- Effective communicator
- Keeps calm under pressure
- Cares about employees
- Acknowledges good work
- Appreciates others’ achievement
- Inspirational
- Great customer service skills
- Conflict-resolution ability
- Understanding of the industry
You may have noticed that the list of desired traits for a manager is significantly longer, and that is simply because a manager will be responsible for much more than an intern, who still has to be trained and taught a number of things. Therefore, managers should have more qualities that go with leadership and entry-level applications should be quick learners.
About the Author: John Pick
