"Big-picture" thinking. Employers today are looking for professionals who can work beyond the functional requirements of their position, think strategically and provide advice to help their organizations remain competitive. While your technical knowledge is critical, your ability to apply that knowledge toward helping the firm achieve its business goals can be even more valuable.

Accountability and initiative. Hiring managers are interested in demonstrated willingness to take initiative and assume increasing responsibility. Volunteer work or community service is ideal for developing skills that may later help you manage special projects or participate on interdepartmental teams.

Honesty and integrity. As basic as it seems, these virtues are more important today than most people think. According to a survey developed by our company, honesty and integrity rank as the primary qualities (apart from the ability and willingness to do the job) that hiring managers look for when interviewing candidates. As the pace of business quickens, managers need people they can count on.

Communication and interpersonal skills. The ability to communicate effectively (in writing and in conversation) has always been key for employees aspiring to reach the top of the corporate ladder, but it has become even more important in today’s team-oriented workplace.