Why a good attitude can matter more than skill
Many tourism and hospitality employers look for a great attitude and a willingness to learn more than skill. So, if you have the right attitude, you'll be a star candidate!
Have you ever stopped yourself from applying for a role because you thought you didn’t have the all the right skills? You could be missing out! Previous experience and skills aren’t always a top requirement for tourism and hospitality employers.
In fact, what many employers value more than anything else is a great attitude and a willingness to learn. Skills can be taught on the job, but a good work ethic can be hard to come by.
SEEK research proves we’re right!
According to this SEEK article:
- 67% of employers would prefer to hire someone who has passion for a role but limited experience, over someone who’s fully qualified but lacks passion.
- 4 out of 5 hirers have employed someone who is enthusiastic, willing to learn and motivated, but who lacks the right technical skills. And 90% of these hirers were happy with that decision ¬– even when the job seeker didn’t originally have the relevant qualifications or experience.
3 ways to highlight your great attitude in a job interview
- Show that you’re motivated by using an example of a time you went above and beyond, overcame a challenge or set yourself an ambitious goal.
- Show that you’re willing to learn with examples of how you’ve taught yourself a new skill, adapted to new technology or processes, or signed up for learning opportunities.
- Show that you’re enthusiastic about the role by researching the company and being able to explain why you want to work for them and in this role. Put this in your cover letter, discuss it in your interview and ask questions!
3 ways to highlight your great attitude in the workplace
- Accept good opportunities that comes your way – saying “yes!” is a great way to prove you are willing to grow and learn. Just be mindful not to overload yourself as well.
- Take responsibility for any mistakes you make – being honest and self-aware is a respectable trait.
- Request open communication with your manager – let them know you want to progress and improve, so schedule in a regular chat to discuss your performance.