Filipino fresh graduates enter the job market with great potential, bringing new ideas, energy, and enthusiasm to the workforce.

A study conducted by the Philippine Business for Education (PBED) found that the first batch of Senior High School (SHS) graduates theoretically possess 93% of the competencies needed by the country’s industries.

The implementation of the K-12 curriculum has also equipped students who may not have pursued a college degree with the necessary skills to enter the workforce. However, many companies still lean toward hiring college graduates, questioning whether SHS graduates are truly job-ready.

But beyond educational background, what do hiring managers actually look for in a candidate? As someone who reviews countless applications daily, here’s what truly stands out.

Soft Skills Matter More Than You Think

One of the most overlooked yet crucial factors in hiring is a candidate’s soft skills. While technical skills can be taught on the job, they have to know the skills to put on a resume that stands out reflecting their ability to work in a team and adapt to challenges.

So, here are some key attributes hiring managers look for:

• Teamwork – Collaborating and communicating effectively with colleagues is essential in any workplace.
• Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking – Companies value employees who can think independently and find solutions rather than just follow instructions.
• Time Management – Meeting deadlines and managing workloads effectively ensure that tasks are completed efficiently.
• Adaptability – Businesses are constantly evolving, and employers prefer candidates who can adapt to new processes and challenges without resistance.

A Strong Willingness to Learn

Hiring managers are not just looking for job seekers who want a paycheck. They want individuals who are eager to grow, learn, and contribute beyond their job description.

Firstly, Filipino fresh graduates who show an openness to training, mentorship, and feedback stand out. In fact, employers appreciate candidates who demonstrate initiative by applying what they have learned and continuously improving their skills.

Essentially, a job search is more than just applying to multiple companies—it’s about strategically positioning oneself as a valuable employee. Likewise, a strong willingness to learn is a key trait that hiring managers look for when deciding how to hire employees who will truly contribute to the organization.

Commitment: How Long Will You Stay?

Hiring and training employees is a costly and time-consuming process. One of the biggest concerns of hiring managers is how long a job seeker intends to stay in the company.

According to The Company Philippines, there is an increase in voluntary turnover rates at 15.9% in 2023, which is a signal for companies to search for better workforce retention strategies.

High turnover rates negatively impact operations. Thus, businesses prefer employees who plan to grow with the organization rather than treat a job as a short-term opportunity.

Applicants who express long-term career goals aligned with the company’s vision are more attractive to employers.

Professionalism in Handling Interview Questions

Another key aspect hiring managers observe is how candidates respond to unexpected interview questions. Many applicants prepare for the usual “Tell me about yourself” or “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” but stumble when given situational or behavioral questions.

The ability to remain composed and provide well-thought-out responses reflects a job seeker’s professionalism. Employers gauge confidence, communication skills, and emotional intelligence through these interactions. Even if the answer is not perfect, how a candidate handles pressure and articulates thoughts professionally speaks volumes about their potential in the workplace.

Beyond Just Filling Positions

Hiring managers should not see Filipino fresh graduates merely as a means to fill vacancies. These graduates have undergone immersive learning experiences and competency training that make them valuable assets in the workforce. Instead of focusing solely on qualifications, employers should recognize their adaptability and eagerness to grow.With platforms like Bossjob, employers can use AI-powered resume analysis tools to assess applications efficiently. By matching job seekers based on their skills and potential, hiring managers can make smarter, data-driven decisions, ensuring that the right talent is placed in the right roles.