Global People Lunch & Talk with Kobi Ampoma: 'What Companies Look for in Employees'

Ampoma Shares Expert Advice on CVs, Interviews and Landing Dream Jobs 

On 17 January at Wittenborg's Amsterdam study location, Kobi Ampoma, a talent acquisition leader, shared valuable insights into the essential elements companies look for when hiring.  

The talk, titled 'Cracking the Code: Understanding the Criteria Companies Seek in Talent', provided a roadmap for students who want to elevate their professional profiles. Ampoma, originally from Ghana, initially discussed his upbringing and fulfilling career, which serves as inspiration for him to give back, educate and share experiences.

Having transitioned from a sales role at Foot Locker to various industries and roles, including a stint as a sponsored basketball player through Nike, Ampoma now considers himself "someone who builds teams".

Drawing on his 22 years of experience, Ampoma highlighted the importance of technical skills, soft skills, adaptability and a proactive mindset in the job-seeking process. "Employability is not just about qualifications; it's about possessing a well-rounded skill set that aligns with a company's ethos," he explained.  

Providing actionable insights for students, Ampoma stated, "Understanding what companies value in employees can significantly enhance your chances of securing a position in today's competitive job market. It's about showcasing a blend of technical expertise and interpersonal skills."

Do recruiters depend on AI to scan CVs?

The first step in securing a job is, of course, through a CV. Ampoma pointed out that students should be aware that it only takes 15 seconds to scan a CV.  

Students were particularly interested in understanding the extent to which recruiters rely on AI (Artificial Intelligence) tools to scan CVs. Ampoma clarified, "Not a lot of companies have adopted that. The challenge I have for you is rather, if you know that your resumé is being reviewed in 15 seconds, what key elements should you prioritise for my attention?"

Ampoma emphasised that a crucial element on a CV is the profile or summary. "This simply includes two or three sentences about who you actually are, what you are interested in, what you think you can bring to the table, and why you find this opportunity interesting."

He added, "If you are competing with other people out there, what is your profile saying? The goal is for your CV to go from 15 seconds to three or four minutes and then a call or interview."

In this case, Ampoma said that ideally they look for a few key things in a future employee.

Essential tips from Ampoma

"Technical skills and relevant experience are crucial. The other part is what are you adding to the culture that is already there? We look for people who are passionate and enthusiastic. It's very important to be part of the solution rather than the problem."

Other tips from Ampoma include having a growth mindset. "This involves figuring out how to do things, even if you don't initially know how to do it. We look for people who can say, 'Let's do it'".  

Furthermore, staying informed about your industry is crucial—make sure you're constantly learning. "We ask people: How many newsletters and articles have you read over the last couple of months? This reflects your genuine interest in the field."

In addition, problem-solving skills are a must. "Hiring managers are primarily focused on bringing in someone who can eventually help address challenges. Teamwork is essential. Critically review your experiences: what have you done and how can you articulate that in a conversation?"

Also consider networking, your presence on social media and asking the right questions during an interview. "Many people overlook the importance of asking questions to truly understand the job. Be proactive in gaining a comprehensive understanding of the job requirements."

In this case, the Global People Lunch & Talk proved exceptionally beneficial for individuals navigating their career paths, said Sophia Faraji, Wittenborg's External Relations & Events Manager.  

"Ampoma's talk was outstanding and offered students a fresh perspective on what companies seek in talent. It was an ideal session for HR students and anyone aspiring to enhance their CV for their dream job. Ampoma illuminated the landscape of HR and job hunting, providing practical tips to boost individual employability. A heartfelt thank you to Ampoma for this invaluable session!" 

WUP 26/01/2024

by Erene Roux

©WUAS Press