Character, networking, and spelling: What bosses really look for in new hires

Shifting employment trends, the rise of AI and automation, and occupation shortages can make it hard for candidates to land their dream roles. These tips could help.

Exclusive: Plenty of Australians will be looking for a new job or career change in 2026.

But shifting employment trends, the rise of AI and automation, and occupation shortages can make it hard for candidates to land their dream roles.

Especially when they're up against countless other people gunning for the same jobs.

Here, Australia's sharpest entrepreneurs, founders and CEOs share their tips and reveal the small actions that can help them Aussies get ahead of other candidates.

Jim Penman, founder of Jim's Group

"In terms of applying for a job, that's not something I'm very familiar with because I haven't actually worked for anybody else since I was 18.

"I can tell you what I look for in a in a candidate though; I look for character first, experience second, and qualifications last, if at all.

"I think a lot of people who are looking for a job should actually consider having their own business of some kind.

"To me, that's just so much better because when you're going for a job, you're totally in someone else's control.

"If you have your own business, then you're in charge. You're the boss.

"And the business doesn't have to be full-time, you can start part-time.

"I started gardening for many years, and then I learned how to do it and got better at it. I suggest people look at a trade, look at the service industry [for a career change]."

Doug Jones, chief executive of Metcash

"At the end of the day, you need to do a good job.

"I tell my children this all the time; having a job is a privilege, not a right. And and I think that delivering 10 times the value of your salary is where you should start.

"It's probably boring and old fashioned advice, but that's the first thing and frankly, that opens up opportunities.

"Whether you're looking for a career change or a promotion, people around you are looking to work with people that get stuff done, and that do it in a way that's collaborative and pleasant.

"So yes, you should do stuff you're interested in, yes, you should do stuff you're good at, but at the end of the day, you should do things where you can add genuine value."

Therese Frangie, chief executive of Oporto

"'Be, do, have.'

"Know what you want to be [and] do what you need to do, whether that's studying, volunteering, or networking, to have what you want.

"I'm a big believer in networking.

"It opens doors, builds confidence, and helps you learn about industries and people you might never have crossed paths with otherwise.

"You also never know who's hiring next, or who knows someone who is.

"There's no stronger resume than a genuine word-of-mouth recommendation."

Sophia Begg, influencer and co-founder of fashion brand All For Mimi

"What stands out to me is when applicants take the time to attend to the finer details.

"You'd be surprised at how many applications don't have a cover letter or have spelling errors!"

Grant Hackett OAM, Olympian and chief executive of Generation Development Group

"Develop relationships with people in a field that you're interested in, or at the very least people who are successful like serial entrepreneurs, because they will give you ideas and insights.

"I love it when someone comes to me and says, 'this is what I'm thinking about doing, I'd love your advice', or 'I'd love some help'.

"And be willing to start at the bottom rung of the ladder. Be really, really willing to eat humble pie and start again.

"I got day two into finance, this is going back nearly 20 years, and I could win World Championships and Olympics and break world records but I wasn't even the best at the table [in finance].

"As soon as I realised that I was like, 'what do I need to do to get to the next level?'. I could have given up. I could have just gone and done talking gigs or other bits and pieces to generate income. I didn't need to be in a completely new field.

"But I was at the bottom rung of the ladder and recognised what I needed to do to get up that ladder, to get to a position that I feel really proud of.

"And as soon as you recognise that, you move up surprisingly quick."

Jane Lu, founder of fashion retailer Showpo

"Bring ideas, not just answers.

"Anyone can tell you what they'd do in theory - stand out by showing you've thought about the specific company or role.

"Ask sharp, curious questions that show you've done your homework and that you genuinely care about adding value.

"Energy and curiosity go a long way."

Michael Schneider, Bunnings managing director

"I'm someone who has made many pivots over the course of my career.

"From starting on the shop floor at Target, to studying teaching, working in financial services and then finding my way back to retail, each role has helped shape me as a teammate and leader.

"My best career advice would be to take every opportunity to learn and grow, even if it means stepping outside of your comfort zone.

"Be proactive in asking questions, seeking feedback and don't be afraid to put your hand up for new roles or projects.

"Sometimes just being curious and taking the smallest step can lead to the biggest change."

Have you got a story? Contact reporter Maddison Leach at mleach@nine.com.au

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