Question: What would “impress” you or help a newly graduated student stand out during these critical times?

Employer #

Response:

Employer 1

Creative solutions.

Employer 2

Ability to find solutions that are not apparently obvious.

Employer 3

Willing to learn, eager to get out into the workforce, great time management and prioritization skills.

Employer 4

ERP knowledge, accounting knowledge, good attitude.

Employer 5

Being able to ask questions.

Employer 6

Candidates who could convey how they overcame critical supplier shortages, whether it was due to COVID or any other reason.

Employer 7

Same things as before. Hard work and a positive attitude. Relentless strive to succeed.

Employer 8

Must be a “go-getter” Got to be willing to put in the time and keep the learning mindset. Self-learning is critical in today’s environment with everyone being stretched thin.

Employer 9

Individuals that know the value of team playing and the importance of having strategic back up and contingency plans.

Employer 10

Dedication, and confidence in success.

Employer 11

Continuous learning get a certification, try something new, tear down products of the company you are applying for.

Employer 12

Mental toughness, eager to learn and being passionate about your craft.

I’m solving supply chain issues that I never knew I could. I’m calling the US GOV to formulate a document to talk to Mexico to force a supplier to open up as one example. We do not have a “Playbook” for these problems and the problems are exhausting because every day is a shutdown situation that can cost millions a day. You have to love what you do, to do this every day at the intensity level it’s at. Having a student that has the grit and grind to fight through these issues by my side as Batman (commodity manger) and Robin (Buyer) is what will impress me.

Employer 13

Students able to speak other languages, in particular Mandarin.

Employer 14

Demonstrating the ability to lead during the pandemic. In whatever that may be, leaders are realizing how hard it has been during this time.

Employer 15

Willing to do whatever it takes.

Employer 16

Crisis management skills in a class or from previous experience.

Employer 17

Good time management and structure.

Employer 18

I’m not sure.

Employer 19

Awareness of global trends (tariffs).

Employer 20

Positive attitude.

Employer 21

Having good communication skills outside of smart devices.

Employer 22

Professionalism, being on video, still being able to feel the positive attitude and energy even through the remote setting, someone who understands “word economy” which I know that sounds weird ... but being able to speak clearly and concisely about a topic with as few words as possible is truly a boon in this even more digital age.

Employer 23

Someone who is willing to take risk and challenge those around him to create mindful discussions. This would help create generate more ideas to Improve the overall strategy effectiveness.

Employer 24

Desire to be at the place of work if needed to support the “manufacturing” (money maker).

Employer 25

willingness to learn and ask thoughtful questions, continued involvement in leadership opportunities even during the pandemic, flexibility, and adaptability.

Employer 26

Positive attitude, experience, new ideas to help everyone work from home or working while social distancing.

Employer 27

Internships are critical.

Employer 28

Increased internal communication of the constraints impacting this industry.

Employer 29

Again, adaptability. Willing to grow into roles outside of the job description.