I heard a great line at the beauty salon today – “You can teach skills. You can’t teach attitude.” How true. My stylist, Tina, who is co-owner of both the salon as well as Paul Mitchell the School-Chicago, and I were discussing the challenge of finding the right people to hire. Her business is really no different than any other and, as a small business owner and educator, she is constantly on the lookout for candidates who are a cut above the rest (no pun intended). And talent isn’t always the first thing she considers.
She said that people can be taught how to do hair, but attitude and work ethic are things you’re born with. You can’t teach them. And those are the elements she looks for. Are you going to show up on time? Are you going to take initiative to help build the business? Do you have some common sense? Is my team going enjoy being around you – in close quarters – day after day?
I think every person in a position to hire is looking for those same qualities. Talent is great, experience is wonderful, networking is crucial, but, when push comes to shove, do you have the temperament and character they’re looking for? Will you be an asset and a pleasure to be with, or do you look like trouble down the line?
How do you want to be perceived by others? The impression you make happens even before you open your mouth. What is your overall image – wardrobe, grooming, facial expression, posture – saying to the world? Let that interviewer see your positive attitude BEFORE they see your resume.
